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The Long War on Iran: New Events, Old Questions
The United States and Iran have been locked in a decades-long standoff, driven by missteps, misunderstandings, and conflicting ambitions. This book, from a prominent Iranian authority, delves into the complex dynamics behind this ongoing conflict. It sheds light on why American policies have repeatedly failed to understand the true nature of Iran’s transformations and its role in the Middle East.
Drawing on two decades of political analysis, Ghamari explores the history of US intervention in the region, focusing on the enduring sanctions imposed on Iran and the persistent perception of the Islamic Republic as a major obstacle to American power. Despite the repressive policies of the state, Iran has remained a vibrant society with active intellectual, cultural, and social justice movements. The book examines these internal changes and shifts in Iranian politics.
By challenging the conventional image of Iran as a totalitarian regime, Ghamari urges readers to appreciate the country’s diverse society and complex political landscape. It calls for a re-evaluation of how the US engages with Iran, advocating for a more informed, nuanced approach to Middle East diplomacy. At a critical moment when US policy is being reshaped, The Long War on Iran is a timely reminder that, if the US fails to acknowledge Iran’s transformations, both nations will continue to face new events―and the same old questions.
Drawing on two decades of political analysis, Ghamari explores the history of US intervention in the region, focusing on the enduring sanctions imposed on Iran and the persistent perception of the Islamic Republic as a major obstacle to American power. Despite the repressive policies of the state, Iran has remained a vibrant society with active intellectual, cultural, and social justice movements. The book examines these internal changes and shifts in Iranian politics.
By challenging the conventional image of Iran as a totalitarian regime, Ghamari urges readers to appreciate the country’s diverse society and complex political landscape. It calls for a re-evaluation of how the US engages with Iran, advocating for a more informed, nuanced approach to Middle East diplomacy. At a critical moment when US policy is being reshaped, The Long War on Iran is a timely reminder that, if the US fails to acknowledge Iran’s transformations, both nations will continue to face new events―and the same old questions.
264 pages, Paperback
First published January 13, 2026
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February 17, 2026
I love OR Books for their though provoking works that get me to rethink what I know. I picked up _The Long War On Iran_ partially because of the silliness of the current US administration trying to force Iran to change at the point of a gun. Actually two carrier battle groups plus other aircraft. The current administration obviously hasn't read any history, as regime change via external forces never actually does what the assailant desires (Iraq & Vietnam are two recent attempts). I also read about the 1953 coup in January that provides a nice bracket to this book. If the USA didn't try to change things in 1953 (solely to stop Iran from nationalizing their oil industry), but instead worked with the country, the 1979 revolution wouldn't have happened. Or it may have, but done over a much longer period of time with less blood shed. But the USA always thinks it knows best.
The author provides a lot of really interesting insight into the country of Iran after the 1979 revolution. I didn't realize that women's rights have expanded under the Republic, whereas they didn't have much under the Shah. The people of Iran participate in elections, which can change society. It helps show the will of the people & slowly push for more social reforms. I also didn't know that Iran helped out after the tragedy of 9-11, as a blocking force against the Taliban and helping push for the Northern Alliance. Of course, the USA just trashed Iran's help instead of using it as a bridge to better relations.
The author gives an insider view into how the current Iranian leadership sees USA sabre rattling. The more the USA & Israel threaten, the more the internal security forces will clamp down. As seen in the latest protests over the huge inflation of food prices, the USA said they would help (but of course that was a lie), which then gave the internal security forces the boogieman needed to use deadly force on thousands. Instead of threatening to bomb the country into submission, we back off and let the internal forces of change gain more traction.
The folks in charge of USA foreign policy only think of Iran in a single dimension. ie all bad. Like any place, the country has a wide range of people, with a wide range of opinions & outlooks. As can be seen across wars against countries, the more you threaten the people, the more they will rally around their leaders, no matter how flawed. Reading through the book, the question about what would happen if the USA just left the country alone. Work with them on taking their place in the region. They could be wonderful allies. But the USA still feels slighted by the events of 1979. Only when the USA leadership gets over itself will the healing begin. But with the way the USA is trying to imitate Russia, then it won't happen until the USA is rebuilt on a more sane foundation.
The author provides a lot of really interesting insight into the country of Iran after the 1979 revolution. I didn't realize that women's rights have expanded under the Republic, whereas they didn't have much under the Shah. The people of Iran participate in elections, which can change society. It helps show the will of the people & slowly push for more social reforms. I also didn't know that Iran helped out after the tragedy of 9-11, as a blocking force against the Taliban and helping push for the Northern Alliance. Of course, the USA just trashed Iran's help instead of using it as a bridge to better relations.
The author gives an insider view into how the current Iranian leadership sees USA sabre rattling. The more the USA & Israel threaten, the more the internal security forces will clamp down. As seen in the latest protests over the huge inflation of food prices, the USA said they would help (but of course that was a lie), which then gave the internal security forces the boogieman needed to use deadly force on thousands. Instead of threatening to bomb the country into submission, we back off and let the internal forces of change gain more traction.
The folks in charge of USA foreign policy only think of Iran in a single dimension. ie all bad. Like any place, the country has a wide range of people, with a wide range of opinions & outlooks. As can be seen across wars against countries, the more you threaten the people, the more they will rally around their leaders, no matter how flawed. Reading through the book, the question about what would happen if the USA just left the country alone. Work with them on taking their place in the region. They could be wonderful allies. But the USA still feels slighted by the events of 1979. Only when the USA leadership gets over itself will the healing begin. But with the way the USA is trying to imitate Russia, then it won't happen until the USA is rebuilt on a more sane foundation.
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