South African experts say the recent escalation between the US and Iran reflects miscalculations by Western powers rather than instability within Iran.
Ahmed Jazbhay, a researcher at the Media Review Network, told VOC News that portraying Iran as a weak or fractious state is misleading.
“It speaks to the audacity of Western powers, thinking they can impose a leader on a country. The Iranians are proud people, and they have resisted external influence for decades,” Jazbhay said.
He added that despite Western claims of propaganda or panic in Iran, the reality on the ground tells a different story.
“CNN recently sent a crew, and they confirmed there’s no panic buying and no shortages. Iranians are going about their lives, and the administration is maintaining law and order despite ten days of conflict,” he said.
Jazbhay also highlighted what he believes are the geopolitical motives behind Western rhetoric.
“This is not about religion. It’s about regime change and strategic control in the Middle East. The US and Israel are seeking to weaken Iran to further the so-called Greater Israel project, not to support any theological cause,” he said.
He also warned about the pressure on Gulf monarchies that host American military bases.
“If they continue hosting American bases, they risk becoming targets. Populations could rise up against regimes seen as complicit, leaving these governments in a very difficult position,” Jazbhay said.
He concluded that the Iranian response has been measured and resilient.
“Iranians are resisting loudly and proudly. They would rather defend their sovereignty than accept a leader imposed from outside,” Jazbhay said.
Photo: QudsNen/X
