It has long been said that there are wars of necessity and wars of choice. But enemies always adapt, especially in our world of terrorists, failing states and delinquent regimes. Every war is a war of choice.
Iran is becoming a superpower. Funding proxy armies, controlling vital energy hubs and winning the heart of the Arab street, Tehran has created a sphere of influence on an imperial scale. If we don’t do something—and soon—Iran, not China or Russia
The negative effects of an Iraqi civil war can be mitigated, even if the conflict itelf cannot be quelled.
U.S. policy must ensure the price of Iranian aggression becomes unaffordable.
The EU has "unilateralist" ambitions.
Without quick mediation, the politicization of religion could lead to conflict.