British journalist Dominic Waghorn, international affairs editor at Sky News, has disclosed that U.S. President Donald Trump has launched a war against Iran that he cannot win, having underestimated Iran's strength and its ability to withstand airstrikes. Waghorn, who described himself as the first British journalist to cover events from within Iran since the outbreak of war, explained that the precise American bombing targeting military infrastructure and the political system has not succeeded in igniting a popular uprising as the Americans had hoped.
Waghorn, who spent a week in Tehran sheltering with civilians, noted that these civilians, who bear the brunt of the destruction and casualties, now hold the United States responsible for the death and devastation surrounding them, contrary to what Washington anticipated. In an interview with iPaper, he stated, "I saw what weeks of bombing can do to an entire population. If you are an ordinary Iranian, not knowing whether the building next to you will become a target, that is extremely frightening."
Details of the Situation
Waghorn confirmed that reactions among Iranians indicate they blame the direct enemy (the United States) more than their internal regime, especially in light of food shortages and fears for their children's lives. The journalist observed tragic scenes, including a four-year-old girl with serious head injuries from a missile attack, and widespread panic among civilians.
He explained that the United States has underestimated the "culture of resistance," which is a historical and essential part of Persian culture, making Iranians resistant to any change imposed from outside. He mentioned that the Iranian leadership has long been prepared, so whenever an official is killed, a new one takes their place. They have succeeded in raising oil prices and threatening the strategic Strait of Hormuz, giving them a strong leverage against the United States.
Background & Context
Although American analysts anticipated a short war similar to the Venezuela crisis, with the regime collapsing quickly, reality has proven they are without an alternative plan. Trump's statements have been contradictory, describing the war as a victory while claiming to achieve regime change, whereas the actual change has led to the emergence of a more hardline regime.
While the Iranian regime has cut off the internet and controlled official media to direct propaganda messages, Waghorn states that his reports have not been censored, as he continued to work with relative freedom while adhering to obtaining permits for coverage from the Ministry of Culture in sensitive locations such as hospitals and funerals.
Impact & Consequences
The British journalist pointed out that Iranians are generally cooperative and polite, despite reservations about speaking critically in front of the camera. He considered some of the criticisms directed at him regarding enhancing Iranian propaganda as a natural part of journalistic work in a vital region that evokes strong emotions and significant passion.
Waghorn concluded that Trump has launched a war without a clear alternative plan, and that Iran holds the stronger cards on the ground and in the economy, making any real American victory elusive even if military bombardment continues.
Regional Significance
Concerns are rising about the implications of this war on the Arab region, as it may lead to escalating tensions in neighboring countries such as Iraq and Syria. The ongoing conflict could negatively impact regional security and exacerbate sectarian and political conflicts.
In conclusion, it seems that the U.S.-Iranian conflict may enter a new phase of complexity, necessitating Arab countries to take strategic positions to confront potential challenges.