Yesterday we focused on the idea of crying wolf too many times when it comes to dealing with Iran, then discussed what might be done to escape the conundrum we seem to be falling into. In the end, we closed with the truth that the Bible will always be our guide, and it exhorts us to stand with Israel, particularly in the face of existential threat.

Today, we’ll wander off into the intricacies of the Iranian war but will return again to Biblical truth. It is wise to heed God’s Word. Read all the way to the end today. You may be surprised at how it ends!

A few days ago, I heard this 4-minute interview with Retired Air Force Brigadier General John Teichert who reiterated the danger of failing to follow through, particularly in the Middle East. I agree with his assessment.

Now comes the question: Why would President Trump continue to make threats without carrying through? Of course, no one knows the answer other than President Trump himself, but it is hard to imagine him being so naive and gullible time after time. Could there now be a shift in strategy, and is the risk piling up too high? Is the US running out of time or options? Let’s surmise…

Shift in Strategy?

Initially, the primary focus of the war with Iran was all about nuclear production and preventing them from acquiring or developing a nuclear weapon and the means to deliver it. “Iran must never have a nuclear weapon,” remains Trump’s key statement. However, with a possible shift toward targeting the energy infrastructure of Iran, could the strategy be changing? If so, Trump has yet to unleash attacks on energy infrastructure that could severely weaken the IRGC’s ability to govern and operate militarily, yet he continues to threaten such attacks.

Could that strategy be effective? Would it prevent tyrannical leaders from coordinating, financing, and carrying out operations within Iran and the surrounding region? Destroyed power plants and other energy infrastructure would limit the IRGC’s ability to communicate and command systems and would make it difficult to produce goods and maintain government function.

Beyond the borders of Iran, their regional influence would be diminished. Funding and organizing terrorist proxies would be almost impossible. Added to weakened internal governing power, Iran would be unable to project power internally or externally. That is, if everything went as planned!

If America turns its strategic focus toward diminishing Iran’s capability to govern, as opposed to their ability to enrich uranium, a new American strategy must emerge. Can a decline in Iran’s ability to govern be sustained by political and military means? The answer to that question will determine the success or failure of the strategy.

Greater Risk with Every Passing Day?

Make no mistake: time is on Iran’s side. Incapable of defeating the US on a battlefield, Iran employs asymmetrical warfare to remain relevant. So, what happens if Iran somehow pulls off successful targeting campaigns aimed at oil fields, refineries, terminals, and pipelines against its Gulf neighbors? By slowing the movement of oil, Iran could decimate the Gulf states’ ability to produce and export. That could send an energy shockwave throughout the world if prices and inflation suddenly exploded upward. Financial markets, including the US would take a hit and economies could be dramatically harmed.

Is all that possible if Trump pressures Iran by changing strategy and creating havoc in Iran’s financial center? Iran may be on to something. Perhaps their greatest strategic weapon may be fear of what happens to the global economy. By threatening shipping routes, infrastructure, and production throughout the Gulf region, suddenly America’s battlefield successes lack power. If gas prices, inflation, shipping insurance and political risk skyrocket, the cost of military action may be too costly. Plus, it is very difficult to fight a war during election season.

Whether Trump has waited too long or is expertly navigating the situation to avoid a war that could crater the world economy, there are real risks either way. What if the US gets pushed into a corner where every option has unacceptable consequences? Striking Iran hard could create an economic firestorm, destroying infrastructure that powers that part of the world. Patiently waiting gives Iran time to rearm, strengthen capabilities, maneuver military equipment, and prepare troops for the next altercation.

Is Iran weaving the perfect strategic trap for America? Are the windows of opportunity to make significant impact on Iran closing? Only so many opportunities ever arise, and timing is always critical. Striking Iran is likely the only way Trump will meet any wartime objectives. But it must be calculated and carried out flawlessly.

Meanwhile, President Trump must decide whether the economic risks are greater than strategic risks, then must implement a plan to accomplish whatever his aim is with Iran.

Back to the Bible

Friends, we can talk strategy all day long and opine until the cows come home about what President Trump should or should not do. But to do so apart from Biblical principles is simply participating in the same arm-chair quarterbacking in which most others engage.

The reality in today’s world is that we are in a mess with Iran. But Biblically speaking, it is not surprising. Since we believe what God’s Word says, we know that the prophet Ezekiel confirms that Iran will be a major factor in the last days. (See yesterday’s synopsis regarding the Ezekiel 38 prophecy.)

But there are more intriguing nuggets regarding Bible prophecy. Matthew 24 describes “wars and rumors of wars” during the last days, and in John 14:29, Jesus says this:

²⁹ “And now I have told you before it comes, that when it does come to pass, you may believe.”

Believe what? Believe Him! He is the Messiah and He wants the whole world to know. Nothing will expedite that more than the turmoil brought about by the end times!

Jeremiah 49:34-39 is a prophecy regarding the judgment on Elam, an ancient territory of modern-day Iran. Though there are differing theological positions regarding the timing of fulfillment, a strong position is that the Elamites would be scattered to the “four winds.” In 1979 when the shah was overthrown and the evil Iranian regime took hold, many Persians left Iran. Verse 39 of the Jeremiah passage says:

⁹ ‘But it shall come to pass in the latter days:
I will bring back the captives of Elam,’ says the Lord.

Is it possible that God will destroy the current regime (if only temporarily), allowing Persians from around the world to return to their ancient homeland? Right now in Iran, there is a tremendous outpouring of the Holy Spirit and many Iranians are meeting Jesus in visions and dreams, and are hearing about Him through ministries pumping the Gospel in through various internet means.

Might it happen that God will open up Iran to the Gospel and bring many to saving faith?

Sure, Iran’s leadership will ultimately revert back to their evil intentions with Israel, and they will fulfill their roll in the Ezekiel 38 prophecy. But today, let’s pray for revival to happen in Iran! Perhaps all the chaos in the region is God’s way of preparing a mighty move of the Spirit in that land!