The DSR Network DSR Daily March 17: Assassinations and Resignations Shake Up Iran War
Mar 17, 2026
A high-profile assassination and its ripple effects on Iran's internal power play. Discussion of targeted-killing strategies and risks to regional stability. A top counterterrorism official's resignation and the controversy around motives. Escalating violence in Kabul and mounting Pakistan–Afghanistan tensions with potential Chinese mediation.
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Assassination Strengthens Iran's Hardliners
- Israel's strike that killed Ali Larijani likely strengthens Iran's military hardliners and reduces pragmatic voices.
- David Rothkopf warns elite thinning can radicalize the regime and make negotiated endings far less likely.
Targeted Killings Rarely Produce Better Regimes
- Decapitating regimes by killing leaders rarely produces favorable regime change and often produces worse outcomes.
- Rothkopf argues strikes increased resentment, raised energy prices, and benefited rivals like Russia while removing moderating voices.
Joe Kent Resigns Over Iran War
- Joe Kent resigned as National Counterterrorism Center director, citing protest against the Iran war and alleging Israeli pressure.
- Riley Fessler notes Kent framed the war as driven by Israel and its lobby in a public resignation letter.