Proponents of the incoming administration's stance argue that a clear, public warning to Russia and China is a necessary step to restore regional stability. By drawing a bright line on arms sales, the U.S. is attempting to prevent the further proliferation of advanced missile technology and drones that have been used to threaten commercial shipping and regional allies. Supporters believe that silence on this issue has previously been interpreted by adversaries as a lack of resolve, which only encourages more aggressive behavior.
From this perspective, the policy is not just about Iran, but about maintaining the credibility of U.S. sanctions regimes. If major powers like Russia and China are allowed to bypass international norms without consequence, the entire framework of global arms control risks becoming obsolete. By engaging these nations directly, the U.S. is forcing them to weigh the economic benefits of arms deals against the potential cost of damaged relations with the incoming American leadership.
This approach also provides a sense of clarity for regional partners who have felt vulnerable to Iranian-backed forces. By taking a proactive stance, the U.S. aims to reassure its allies that it remains committed to preventing a regional arms race. Supporters argue that this firm diplomacy is the most effective way to avoid a larger, more costly military conflict in the future, as it addresses the source of the weaponry before it can be deployed on the battlefield.