French historian and demographer Emmanuel Todd argues that a potential US attack on Iran would not be aimed at changing власти in Tehran, but at provoking a large-scale internal conflict. In an interview with the Japanese outlet Bunshun, he suggested that such a scenario could push the country into prolonged chaos.

In his assessment, Washington’s strategy goes far beyond direct pressure on Iran. Todd sees it as part of a broader approach built on global intimidation-one that, he says, inflicts serious economic damage not only on the Islamic Republic itself but also on European Union countries.

He believes that even a смена политического режима would not be sufficient to achieve US objectives. Instead, Todd argues that President Donald Trump’s goal is to weaken Iran as one of the key players in the Middle East.

The historian also describes the United States as having effectively turned into what he calls an «empire of blackmail,» where intimidation has become a central tool of international policy. In his view, this model of behavior amounts to a coercive method of dominance, targeting not only adversaries but also allies.

Todd further notes that the shift toward personal attacks on foreign leaders serves as an additional instrument of pressure, designed to instill fear more broadly. He warns that such a course could entrench a global order based on force, in which many countries would seek to rapidly acquire their own nuclear weapons.

Summing up, Todd characterizes US actions as impulsive and lacking clear rational logic, reflecting a broader trend toward destabilization and disorder.