As Iran’s government promises a new age of prosperity after sanctions, many Iranians are hoping for the best. But the security establishment, with an eye to its political survival, is very publicly preparing for the worst.
In the past few weeks, Iran has begun to implement a historic accord with world powers, voluntarily curbing its nuclear programme in exchange for relief from the sanctions that have cut Tehran off from much of the world.
At the same time, the armed forces have loudly advertised developments to Iran’s missile deterrent and other defence capabilities, proclaiming they are still prepared for an attack by the Islamic Republic’s enemies.
The increase in martial messaging, which analysts say is aimed both at Iran’s enemies abroad and political moderates at home, has alarmed Israel and Gulf Arab countries which are wary of Iran’s ambitions in the Middle East.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei approved the nuclear deal last month. But he insisted that it did not herald a new era of co-operation with the United States, which he believes is determined to bring about regime change in Tehran.
“America’s goals have not changed. If they could destroy the Islamic Republic today, they would not hesitate for a moment,” he said on Tuesday.
