Amid rising tensions between the United States and Iran, US President Donald Trump has claimed US pressure is pushing Tehran to the brink. Iranian leaders have responded defiantly, insisting they will defend their nuclear and missile programs and resist US influence.

Middle East analyst Sina Azodi argues that decades of economic pressure have hurt civilians but failed to force political change. Both sides have signaled a readiness for conflict, yet also share a strong interest in avoiding a prolonged war.