What is Iran’s military strategy? How has it changed since June 2025 war?

Al Jazeera

March 2, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Iran has significantly revamped its military strategy following the June 2025 US-Israeli war, adopting a more aggressive approach focused on self-preservation and retaliation. This shift is evident in Tehran's decisive response to the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launching unprecedented attacks using drones and ballistic missiles. These strikes targeted not only Israeli and American military bases but also civilian infrastructure across the Gulf region, including landmarks in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, causing casualties and economic disruption. Iran's military structure is complex, featuring parallel armies—the Artesh (regular army) and the IRGC—each with distinct roles. The IRGC, responsible for external defense and internal security, has become central to Iran's deterrence strategy against Israel and the US. This strategy reflects Tehran's broader goal of safeguarding its political system from foreign intervention and domestic threats. The use of Shahed drones and high-speed missiles demonstrates a shift toward asymmetric warfare, enabling Iran to project power despite technological limitations. The conflict highlights Iran's determination to retaliate swiftly and aggressively, as seen in the 137 missiles and 209 drones launched during the initial strikes. While many were intercepted, some caused significant damage, underscoring the risks of escalation in the region. The involvement of Gulf countries like UAE and Kuwait adds complexity, with their infrastructure hit despite their neutrality. The surge in oil prices reflects the broader economic and geopolitical instability triggered by the conflict. This situation matters globally as it underscores the potential for further regional escalation, impacting global energy supplies and security. Iran's revised strategy signals a more assertive posture, raising concerns about the stability of Middle Eastern relations and the involvement of external powers. For readers interested in world politics, this conflict offers

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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 3/2/2026