to the Islamic Republic . “ My big concern is that he has said he will tear up the nuclear deal with Iran . That would be catastrophic , ” said a senior diplomat in Vienna .
The chances of intentional conflict are real , as is the possibility of an unintended clash escalating . At the same time , Syria is not essential to the national security of Russia or the United States . It is not without importance , but a defeat or capitulationconflict.yield.surrenderthere will not change the balance of power between them at all . It would of course affect psychological and political perception , but in the long run , perception ultimately comes down to substantial military and economic power . The United States can afford to back off .