Iran’s missile, defense power forces Israeli retreat
Negotiations needed for permanent cease-fire
By Shahriar Heydari
International affairs analyst
Following twelve days of aggression, the war waged by Israel against Iran appears to have come to a halt. Crucially, this cease-fire would not have been declared had it not been for the Islamic Republic of Iran’s robust missile and defense capabilities. It was this military deterrence—alongside the resilience, unity, and patience of the Iranian people—that ultimately compelled the United States and the Zionist regime of Israel to step back and announce a truce.
Despite the hardships endured by civilians during this period, the Iranian nation stood firmly with the Armed Forces, demonstrating remarkable composure and solidarity. Such steadfastness played a decisive role in achieving what is now regarded as a major strategic victory for the Islamic Republic of Iran.
The cease-fire, therefore, is a direct result of national resistance and endurance. It had not been part of the original American-Israeli plan. In fact, Israel’s assault on Iran was launched in full coordination with the United States, and similarly, the cease-fire was only accepted after consultations between the two. However, the show of power and cohesion by Iran’s military and its people altered the calculus, leading to the eventual declaration of a truce.
The cease-fire must not serve as a temporary measure to allow the Zionist regime to regroup. At present, the Israeli regime is facing internal political turmoil, with widespread public dissatisfaction among residents of the occupied territories. This discontent has placed immense pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his hawkish cabinet.
In addition, divisions within Israel’s military and operational leadership have emerged, further weakening the regime’s internal coherence. This growing instability prompted the United States to intervene in support of Israel, ultimately proposing the cease-fire to mitigate further damage.
The recent confrontation has offered Iran a valuable strategic experience in facing both the United States and Israel. This experience is expected to further enhance the Islamic Republic’s military readiness, cohesion, and capability in future scenarios.
It bears repeating that without Iran’s missile and defense strength, no cease-fire would have been declared. It was this deterrence, coupled with the endurance and unity of the Iranian people, that produced a significant national achievement and brought about a change in the trajectory of the conflict.
Nevertheless, this cease-fire must now be followed by negotiations—specifically, negotiations aimed at securing a permanent truce. The goal should be to prevent the United States and Israel from considering any similar acts of aggression in the future. These are the fundamental issues that must now be addressed at the negotiating table.