In the latest fantastic claims captured on social media, Iran’s Supreme Leader seems to be writing his very own comic book series, where Iran stands as the towering victor over both Israel and the United States. Subtitled “Iran’s Great Triumph,” it appears to be a page-turner aimed straight at their domestic audience, perhaps in an effort to paint a rosy picture amidst the gray clouds of geopolitical reality. The Ayatollah has taken to proclaiming Iran’s supposed victory, uttering bombastic phrases like bringing Israel “to its knees,” while also taking a victory lap over the U.S.
One marvels at this grand narrative given the track record of Iran’s economy in shambles and internal dissent simmering just below the surface. The nation, gripped by a myriad of crises, seems to look towards a peculiar kind of escapism by perpetuating stories of their so-called triumphs against global superpowers. How effective this will be for the mullahs clinging to power remains to be seen. The real audience, international and perhaps even local, may not be as convinced by the narrative spun from the high towers of Tehran.
For someone claiming such international victories, Iran’s Supreme Leader certainly spends a lot of time peering out of a bunker, wary of Israeli jets buzzing overhead. Not exactly the image of supremacy he would like the world to believe. And let’s not forget, while he’s busy claiming victory, the Iranian populace continues to endure staggering inflation, limitations on personal freedom, and an economy slipping ever further into despair. But that’s just fine as long as the fairytales continue to distract from the harsh realities at home.
The idea of negotiating with Iran under these circumstances raises eyebrows. One can’t help but wonder what meaningful discussions could occur with a regime so deeply entrenched in its own set of alternative facts. The conditions for any deal, sensible or otherwise, would likely include Iran stopping its nuclear provocations and recognizing Israel’s right to exist – a prospect unlikely to see the light of day in Iran’s current political climate. Still, the hope remains, albeit faint, that eventually, even the most ardent tyrants might see some wisdom in choosing a path that offers their people a sliver of a better life.
In the end, while the Ayatollah and his cohorts are busy telling tales of their toying with world powers, the rest of us sit back and take it all with a grain of salt—or perhaps a whole shaker. The international community and those living under Iran’s thumb know well that words don’t match actions. How long can these rulers keep the wool over the eyes of their people using tales of regional conquest as their shield? Only time will tell if this charade will end with Iran finally choosing to play nice in the international sandbox or continuing to build its imaginary castles.
