Part 12/17:
US-Support analyst Jonathan Sier explains that Iran's leverage has grown over time, partly because its military capabilities—missiles and air defenses—have been rebuilt post-Israeli strikes, and because skepticism lingers regarding Iran's transparency. The regime's internal economic situation has improved marginally, partly due to perceptions of potential agreement and partial lifting of sanctions, though internal dissent persists. Strikes by truck drivers and energy workers signal ongoing popular discontent, which could, over time, push the regime toward change.