Iran: Domestic Crisis and Options for the West

Abstract

This paper analyzes the implications of the June 2009 post-electoral crisis for Iran's political system, which is based largely on religious legitimacy. The author notes that, while the confrontation between opposition protesters and regime loyalists becomes increasingly intractable, conflicts within Iran's ruling elite are intensifying. He argues that whatever the outcome, the crisis is not likely to have a positive effect on the nuclear issue, with the West being confronted with a severe dilemma as to how to proceed.