An opinion piece published by Fox News argues that former President Donald Trump must decisively confront the Islamic Republic of Iran and its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), asserting that the outcome of this struggle will shape the future of the West and Trump's historical reputation. The analysis posits that Iran, driven by a specific interpretation of "Twelver" theology, poses a unique threat not deterred by conventional means, as its leadership may prioritize "martyrdom" and the fulfillment of religious prophecies over regime survival.
The author of the piece, Hugh Hewitt, suggests that unlike leaders such as Xi Jinping or Vladimir Putin, Iran's theocratic rulers are motivated by an apocalyptic worldview that could lead them to use nuclear weapons to destroy Israel and potentially hasten the return of the Mahdi, an awaited messianic figure in Shi'a Islam. This perspective, according to the article, stems from a belief that turmoil can help usher in the Mahdi's return.
The article points to Iran's economic struggles, characterized by hyperinflation, as a potential catalyst for internal rebellion and revolution. It draws a parallel between the Iranian regime's suppression of protests and China's actions in Tiananmen Square in 1989, suggesting that such repression is a temporary measure for regimes lacking the extensive surveillance capabilities of China.
Furthermore, the piece highlights concerns about Iran's nuclear program, specifically mentioning "Pickaxe Mountain" as a site where the regime might be developing nuclear weapons in deeply buried caverns that could withstand conventional bombardment. This poses a challenge to existing U.S. military capabilities, including "bunker busters" previously used by the Trump administration against Iran's Fordow nuclear facility.
Drawing on a maxim attributed to Napoleon—"If you start to take Vienna, take Vienna"—the article advocates for a resolute and complete approach to confronting Iran. It criticizes what it terms "half maneuvers" or abandoned plans in military campaigns, suggesting that such hesitation can be detrimental to a nation's victory and survival. The author asserts that Trump is willing to address the implications of a theocracy pursuing weapons of mass destruction and urges him to see the confrontation through to its conclusion.
This perspective comes amid broader discussions about Iran's regional activities, including the drone strike in Jordan that killed four U.S. service members. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is quoted as calling Iran's leaders "crazy," while Trump is described as having referred to them as "scum."