An Atlantic Council analyst suggests Washington identify allies in Iran's military and back the internal opposition. William Wechsler, senior director of Middle East programs at the Atlantic Council, wrote in a memorandum dated July 2, 2026, while criticizing the war and agreement with Iran, that Washington should focus more on the country's internal developments and see people and networks within Iran as the axis of potential political change. The memo recommends identifying potential allies in the military in advance so that they can act against the ruling structure at an opportune moment, and gain a more accurate understanding of the local opposition networks while providing financial support, equipment and possibly weapons.

An Atlantic Council analyst suggests Washington identify allies in Iran's military and back the internal opposition. William Wechsler, senior director of Middle East programs at the Atlantic Council, wrote in a memorandum dated July 2, 2026, while criticizing the war and agreement with Iran, that Washington should focus more on the country's internal developments and see people and networks within Iran as the axis of potential political change. The memo recommends identifying potential allies in the military in advance so that they can act against the ruling structure at an opportune moment, and gain a more accurate understanding of the local opposition networks while providing financial support, equipment and possibly weapons.