FOR over four decades, Iran’s foreign policy has been marked by its Marg bar Amrika (Death to America) slogan. Embedded in official rhetoric, political demonstrations and religious events, the slogan has acted as a proclamation of ideological resistance, symbolising a stand against Western hegemony.

Nevertheless, despite its belligerent stance and significant investments in developing its nuclear capability, Iran does not possess a nuclear weapon. As such, this reality is particularly notable when juxtaposed with North Korea which pursued its nuclear objectives with a steadfast resolve.

Iran has spent decades fluctuating between threats and restraint, failing to achieve either a position of strategic deterrence or diplomatic acceptance. Iran’s penchant for slogans has brought its enemies even closer, united in their resolve to crush its nuclear ambitions. Slogans without consistent matching actions tend to do more harm than good.

It is time Iran re-evaluated the strategic worth of its sloganeering. Words without tangible outcomes lead to weariness among allies, foes and the citizenry alike. There is value in maintaining silence.

If North Korea reached its nuclear ambitions through tactical ambiguity and perseverance, Iran’s lack of success despite its loud defiance serves as an inverse cautionary lesson. Strategic credibility is not established through chants, it is gained through capability, clarity and, when necessary, restraint.

Perhaps it is time for Iran to reduce its volume, redefine its strategy, and pursue a future characterised not by outdated slogans, but by innovative approaches.

Muhammad Nouman Nayyar
Lahore

Published in Dawn, July 13th, 2025