US Strike on Iran: Why it's Riskier Than Venezuela Operation

• Iran possesses a large and diverse missile arsenal, including medium-range ballistic missiles capable of reaching US bases, Israel, and Gulf states.
• Unlike Venezuela, Iran has invested heavily in drones, anti-ship missiles, and air defenses, signaling that any strike would not be contained.
• US allies like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Israel would be exposed to retaliation, with Israeli interceptor stockpiles already under strain.
• Iran's proxy network, including Hezbollah, Shiite militias, and Houthis, could disrupt shipping, target US forces, and open multiple fronts.
• Iran's political system is layered and ideological, making regime change difficult, and its control over the Strait of Hormuz poses a global economic threat.