An Australian National University professor said Iran treats the conflict as
existential and, despite economic strain and diplomatic pressure, is unlikely to
accept a ceasefire unless it secures explicit guarantees for its safety. He
noted Iran’s long experience under sanctions and domestic production capacity,
and said Tehran is unlikely to show weakness or yield even after military
attrition. U.S. media report Iran rapidly resumed drone production after the
April ceasefire; some analysts say Tehran could replenish drone inventories
within months. An International Crisis Group security expert warned the rapid
consumption of key U.S. munitions, including Patriot interceptors and Tomahawk
cruise missiles, is striking and raises concern for future contingencies with
other great powers. Both sides therefore face pressure points that make a
prolonged war costly, though the ANU professor said the U.S. is suffering
greater reputational damage as global observers see limits to its ability to
resolve the Iran issue.
