Votel: New Iran Strikes Will Slow Threats, Not Stop War
The retired general warns that without a defined end state, fresh bombings will only delay Tehran's recovery.
By Marek Collins ·
Retired Army General Joseph Votel warned that a new wave of U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran will likely fail to end the current conflict.
Speaking to NPR, Votel, who led U.S. Central Command from 2016 to 2019, assessed the military objectives of a potential post-election bombing campaign. He noted that many probable targets have already been hit in previous operations. Iran has demonstrated the ability to rebuild these capabilities after attacks.
Votel stated that strikes serve to punish Tehran and degrade specific capabilities, but they have not yet altered the country's strategic calculus. He argued that the U.S. government must first define a clear end state before launching further operations. In his view, that objective centers on resolving the enrichment issue and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
He emphasized that military force is only one component of national power. Economic, diplomatic, and informational pressures must align with military actions to achieve a defined goal. Votel pointed to the financial front as an area showing visible progress. He cited reports that Iran's ghost fleet has run out of oil due to the blockade and sanctions. He described this as a slow but definite movement in the right direction.
The general identified two primary U.S. aims: reopening the Strait of Hormuz to facilitate oil commerce and addressing Iran's nuclear program. He noted that these actions could help lower domestic gas and diesel prices. He also mentioned Iran's use of proxies, including the Houthis, to create regional instability, but he maintained that Hormuz and enrichment remain the principal concerns.
Regarding military readiness, Votel said American offensive power in the region is substantial. The ability to launch strikes is not in question. However, he identified missile defense as a potential constraint. He noted that defensive interceptors protecting U.S. forces and regional partners face heavy pressure. Offensive capability is adequate, but defensive resources may face limitations.
Source: NPR
