Strategic Assessment

Describing the application of military force against Iran as an “attack” or an “operation” is misguided. The first strike wave would be nothing more than a catalyst for the military and political struggle that would take place in the months thereafter. The purpose of this essay is to examine possible strategies that Iran, Israel, and the United States might adopt after a military strike on Iranian nuclear assets. The essay also seeks to outline the core constraints and considerations of the respective sides and assess them as they evolve dynamically, relative to the steps of the other sides. Rather than an isolated military episode, therefore, what is at stake is a long war of many moves and counter moves, and Israel must prepare for this war fully understanding its nature, circumstances, and unique characteristics.