After US airstrikes, Iran faces bleak choices with historic consequences The New York Times reports

All possible moves Iran might take following US airstrikes on its nuclear facilities appear bleak — and any decision could become a defining moment in the history of the Islamic Republic.

If Tehran chooses to retaliate against the US, it risks drawing the nation into a large-scale war, Caliber.Az reports via The New York Times. 

The consequences could be dire, potentially leading to the fragmentation of Iran or prolonged instability resembling the post-invasion scenarios in Iraq and Afghanistan. Conversely, if Iran refrains from responding and agrees to a ceasefire, it could face a significant weakening of its strategic position.

The Islamic Republic might be reduced to a shadow of its former self — with its nuclear infrastructure destroyed, its military forces depleted, and almost no leverage left in diplomatic negotiations, including over the possible lifting of harsh international sanctions. Additionally, Iran’s status as a regional power would be severely diminished. 

“If we don’t react, the US will not leave us alone right now when it can so easily come and strike us and leave,” said Reza Salehi, a conservative political analyst based in Tehran.

Salehi added that the major challenge they faced that week was the possibility that, if they returned to the negotiating table, the other side would impose new and harsher demands, particularly related to Iran's defense capabilities, which would further complicate the situation.

By Naila Huseynova