In this American Greatness article, John D. O’Connor argues that any Iran deal allowing the IRGC to survive, regroup, and profit from restored oil revenue would be a strategic disaster for Trump, Israel, the Middle East, and U.S. credibility.
- O’Connor frames the central question as what would actually constitute a “good deal” with Iran, warning that a deal perceived as favorable to the IRGC would squander what he sees as a historic opportunity.
- He argues that the United States has already identified key Iranian missile sites, drone facilities, and IRGC leadership locations, and that another sustained military campaign plus economic blockade could cripple the IRGC.
- The article contends that weakening or destroying the IRGC would sharply reduce support for Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, giving Israel and U.S.-aligned regional actors a chance to reshape the Middle East.
- O’Connor links Middle East stability to broader U.S. strategy against China, arguing that a calmer region would let America focus on Taiwan and the semiconductor supply chain critical to AI.
- He dismisses the idea that a nuclear-only deal is sufficient, noting that Iran’s regime and proxies have destabilized the region without needing nuclear weapons.
- The author warns that if Trump accepts a deal that leaves the IRGC in power and unlocks billions in revenue, critics will portray him as having escalated, then backed down — another “TACO” moment.
- He argues that finishing the campaign against the IRGC would give Trump a far stronger legacy as a world-historical peacemaker, while a weak deal would leave Israel vulnerable and empower Iran’s proxies.
- O’Connor concludes by urging readers to pressure the White House to end negotiations and pursue a policy aimed at eliminating the IRGC’s power.
Read the full story: https://amgreatness.com/2026/06/09/avoiding-taco-any-deal-enabling-the-irgc-is-a-bad-deal/
