The U.S. and Israel tried to pursue their own strategic interests, aiming to weaken Iran, but their war on Iran has backfired, as such perceptions have only strengthened public caution and unity. Foreign powers misjudged Iran's resilience, overlooking its long history, culture and determination to defend sovereignty against outside pressure.

The U.S. and Israel's strikes on Iran violate international law by breaching the U.N. Charter's prohibition on the use of force and failing to secure Security Council authorization. However, Iran's retaliatory strikes underscore the urgent need for restraint, diplomacy and respect for legal norms to prevent wider regional escalation.