The designation of the Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization is part of these new sanctions. However, Dr. Frank Umbach emphasized that this step is primarily symbolic and unlikely to prompt the regime to reconsider its course.
Nevertheless, he argued that the timing is favorable to press Iran for concessions, for instance with regard to its nuclear program. At the same time, he warned against the mistake of believing that a regime change could be brought about through a few targeted military strikes.
Finally, Umbach commented on Iran’s announced military exercise in the Strait of Hormuz, noting that it simultaneously reveals both the regime’s strength and its weakness.