Iran's Bluster Proves Its Weakness | Benjamin H. Friedman | Cato Institute: Commentary

Iran's Bluster Proves Its Weakness | Benjamin H. Friedman | Cato Institute: Commentary: 'The obviousness of Iran's bluster suggests its weakness. Empty threats generally show desperation, not security. And Iran's weakness is not confined to water. Though Iran is more populous and wealthier than most of its neighbors, its military isn't equipped for conquest. Like other militaries in its region, Iran's suffers from coup-proofing, the practice of designing a military more to prevent coups than to fight rival states. Economic problems and limited weapons-import options have also undermined it ability to modernize its military, while its rivals buy American arms.'