Faraj Sarkohi: Unveiling the Power of Words Amidst Crisis and Change in Iran

Another significant factor Sarkohi highlights is the massive military budgets of the Iranian government. These budgets consume a substantial portion of the country’s oil resources and revenues. When coupled with the substantial financial support provided to groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, it becomes evident that vast sums of money are diverted from the Iranian people to fund activities that do not benefit the nation. Sarkohi draws a parallel with the Soviet Union’s experience in Afghanistan, emphasizing the financial strain such military endeavors place on Iran.

Moreover, Sarkohi asserts that the authoritarian rentier system, particularly under the strain of U.S. sanctions, is attempting to deflect the economic pressure stemming from decreased income away from the government structure and back onto the Iranian populace. This approach avoids addressing the need to reduce military spending or combat structural corruption within the system.

Sarkohi’s analysis underscores the regime’s reluctance to revise its policies until all other avenues have been exhausted, as exemplified by the JCPOA. The regime’s primary concern is maintaining its grip on power and preventing any erosion of its authority. Retreating from its positions would signify vulnerability and undermine its control over the populace.

September 3, 2023 | 7:17 pm