The regime may be more vulnerable to comprehensive sanctions than many realize. Despite high oil prices, the mullahs are running an economy with little job growth and high unemployment. Radio Free Europe reports that Iran’s president has been traveling around the country reassuring people on the economy.
A sanctions-induced economic tailspin may convince many Iranians that their government’s nuclear weapons quest isn’t such a good idea. Of course, the most comprehensive sanctions would be those imposed by the UN Security Council. But that would require Russia and China to act responsibly so don’t hold your breath. And even if the UN acted with speed and resolve in applying real sanctions it may not be enough to stop Iran’s weapons program. But it’s worth a try.
