Mearsheimer: Iranians are Nationalists to the Core and Will Never Surrender

Tehran - BORNA - John Mearsheimer, in an interview with prominent British host Piers Morgan, discussed the trajectory of the conflict between the U.S. and Iran. He stated that the resolution of this crisis is likely only possible through a negotiated agreement, though reaching such a deal remains exceptionally difficult.

Strategic Stalemate and Failed Calculations

Mearsheimer noted that the current situation lacks even a stable ceasefire. He acknowledged that the U.S. decision to maintain a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz prompted Iran to react by re-closing the waterway—an escalation involving reciprocal ship seizures that has stalled negotiations.

The American analyst criticized the initial miscalculations made by President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "They believed they could achieve victory with a swift and decisive strike," Mearsheimer said. "They thought a 'shock and awe' operation could collapse the Iranian government, rendering concerns over the Strait of Hormuz irrelevant. That simply did not happen."

Complexity of Potential Negotiations

Mearsheimer emphasized that even if both sides return to the table, the gap between their positions is vast. He explained that the nuclear issue is just one of many points of contention, which also include sanctions, reparations, control of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s regional alliances, and the U.S. military presence in the Middle East.

He further noted that while Washington's initial goal was regime change, it has pivoted to preventing nuclear development—a goal he deems unattainable as Iran is unlikely to relinquish its enrichment capabilities.

Economic Fallout and the "Nationalist Bone"

The professor warned of the catastrophic economic consequences of a prolonged conflict, stating that a total closure of the Strait of Hormuz could trigger an international crisis comparable to the Great Depression of the 1930s. This concern, he argued, is why the U.S. President has sought to reduce tensions through ceasefire extensions.

Describing the resilience of the Iranian people, Mearsheimer stated:

"Iranians are nationalists to the core and view the United States and Israel as existential threats. Therefore, they will fight to the last person and will never surrender."

Mearsheimer concluded that the U.S. currently has no strategy for victory and that pursuing a military path will only incur higher costs. He asserted that the best and only viable option is a swift end to the conflict through diplomatic solutions.

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