As the crisis between the United States and Iran continues to escalate, former Head of the Israeli Military Intelligence Branch Danny Citrinowicz offers a nuanced perspective on the options facing President Trump. According to Citrinowicz, the choices are not between good and bad, but rather between bad and very bad. Any agreement will require significant concessions to Iran, which could strengthen the regime instead of weakening it. On the other hand, expanding the campaign is expected to exacerbate the international economic situation, and any land operation will put U.S. soldiers at significant risk.

Citrinowicz highlights that the longer the Iranian regime does not fall, the harder the options become to achieve and the more complex they are to execute. Moreover, he notes that once President Trump has already harmed Iran’s leader, the element of deterrence is lost, and further threats may not be perceived as relevant in Tehran. Therefore, any action taken by the U.S. must be carefully considered to avoid escalating the situation further.