Rebranding and Deterrence: How Iran’s Relationships with Proxies Evolved

The United States’ deterrence strategy against the Islamic Republic of Iran has not yielded desired outcomes to meet mission objectives. Iranian-backed groups have taken advantage of the Israel-Hamas war and Washington’s preoccupation with both the Russia-Ukraine war and China. Iraqi groups and Yemen’s Houthis have rebranded and adapted to the new operational environmental that has unfolded in the region, due largely to the war in Israel. Policymakers should consider a strategy that goes beyond deterrence that includes partnerships, greater interagency coordination, and imposing costs with offensive measures.