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Iran Adopting Long-Term Strategy, War May Last Longer: Vikram Sood
Former chief of India’s external intelligence agency Research and Analysis Wing, Vikram Sood, has warned that the ongoing conflict involving Iran and the United States could last much longer than initially expected.
Speaking to ANI, Sood explained that Iran appears to be approaching the conflict with a different strategic mindset compared to the United States. According to him, Tehran is prepared for a prolonged confrontation, while Washington is reluctant to commit ground forces in a foreign conflict.
“The Iranians are willing to die in this war, but the Americans are not willing to die on foreign soil,” Sood said. He noted that US leadership remains extremely cautious about the political and social consequences of military casualties returning home.
As a result, the United States is likely to rely mainly on air strikes and missile attacks rather than large-scale ground operations. However, Sood believes such tactics alone may not bring a quick resolution to the conflict.
He also pointed out that Iran is attempting to create pressure on Washington by targeting American allies in the region. By striking countries hosting US military bases, Tehran is seeking to stir unrest among regional partners and complicate America’s strategic position.
The administration of Donald Trump had earlier suggested the conflict might last only four to five weeks. However, Sood said the war could extend well beyond that timeframe due to Iran’s ability to sustain prolonged resistance.
Meanwhile, US officials maintain that operations are progressing as planned. Admiral Brad Cooper recently stated that Iran’s capacity to strike American forces and allies is steadily weakening, while US combat strength continues to grow.
Despite these assurances, uncertainty surrounding the conflict has raised concerns globally, particularly about disruptions to energy supplies and stability in the Middle East.
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