Iran has set a powerful example for middle-tier nations on how to deal with the United States—by standing firm and being ready to fight.

A country under decades-long sanctions and blockades, how could it force a superpower to sign memorandums, unfreeze $25 billion in assets, and agree to gradually lift all sanctions? Not through diplomatic rhetoric, but because Iran holds the Strait of Hormuz in its grasp, and because its missiles can reach U.S. military bases.

Just look at the cautionary tales: Saddam Hussein was completely drained of military leverage before 2003, obediently cooperating with inspections; Qaddafi personally dismantled his nuclear program and long-range missiles—only to be hunted down and killed by NATO airstrikes in a sewer. History repeatedly confirms an iron rule: in America’s negotiation logic, if you lack the power to "hurt it," it won’t even bother listening to your demands. So-called "international rules" only matter to those who possess real hard power.

Iran’s approach may be crude, but it is precise—first establishing the undeniable fact that "I can cost you hundreds of millions of dollars every day," then negotiating from strength.

It never fantasizes about earning rewards by "behaving well." Instead, it turns every missile launch into a comma on the negotiating table. Even if it must tighten its belt economically, it always maintains strategic leverage—this is the only effective language a small nation has when facing hegemony.

Israel’s frantic reactions precisely highlight the issue: you thought you were an "indispensable ally," only to find out the U.S. didn’t even notify you before calling for a ceasefire. When your value reduces to blind obedience, you lose even the right to sit at the table.

So when dealing with the United States, respect cannot be begged for on your knees—it can only be earned by standing tall and fighting. Iran’s lesson should be clear to the entire world.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1868033190936587/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.