A Panoply of Deterrence
Be guided by history, and history demonstrates that Israel's and the US hunger for destruction cannot easily be satiated. Pray the ceasefire holds, but do not bet the farm on it. War is an endeavor of adaptation. When weaknesses are exposed, the strategic thinker develops ameliorative solutions. Iran has a very capable ballistic missile program, but its air defenses both aerial and ground based are lacking. China, Russia, and Iran can establish a panoply of deterrence. Tick, tick, tick...
Historically, Israel uses ceasefires for rearmament only to resume hostilities at will. Have things so dramatically changed? An eerie silence has fallen over the Middle East. While Donald Trump has claimed "complete obliteration" of Iran's nuclear program, satellite evidence strongly suggests this is not the case, and Iran has stated that enrichment will continue and, understandably, without IAEA supervision. What will stop Israel and the US from using Iran's nuclear program again as a pretext?
If Israel and/or the US decide to resume hostilities, air attacks must be met with resistance. If aerial bombardment can be carried out with impunity, little will change. However, if approaching hostile aircraft can be detected, engaged, and successfully destroyed, deterrence can very possibly be achieved early. Furthermore, IDF ground forces are not prepared for escalated ground operations. Coordination with the Lebanese and, perhaps, even Egypt could also create an avenue for deterrence.
If the war begins again, be prepared for protracted engagement. Reliable supply lines must exist - preferably through countries that have nuclear weapons in order to deter potential retaliation. The violent belligerence must end. Deceitful diplomacy must no longer be tolerated. If Israel and/or the US reverse course, it will place the final nail in the coffin of trustworthiness. How many times will their cries of "wolf!" be believed? Any future "ceasefires" must be met with escalation.
Dying predators are dangerous creatures. Their fangs are still sharp, and their tempers tend to be shorter. The writing is on the wall for the end of US hegemony. Statements from top US officials are becoming more irrational, yet they can still inflict damage. This message is not a call to war. This message is a call to Peace. Peace through strength is not done by bombing but by deterrence. China's industrial base needs customers; Russia has hardened experience; and Iran has courage. Deterrence.