Although its tough to believe, even for an Iranian like myself, I must say that your argument makes sense, logically speaking. And given the history of 'operation ajax' we all know just how far the US would go.

The problem with the US govt is that it expects high returns on its policies in the SHORT-TERM, without giving the long-term costs any attention. Its similar to the problem facing Wall Street. Too much so-called activism by lobbyists is also driving such short-term thinking. I'm not saying lobbying should be outlawed, but we must come up with something to try and at least minimize that crazy and selfish drive that each lobbying form has. Of course, there's not way to slowdown AIPAC. Those mofos actually run the US govt these days.