Instead of worrying about the rise of China, we need to fear its fall.

"I don't know if it's Donald Trump. I don't know what it is, but I'm getting the sense that politics is beginning to have a bit of a renaissance on TV," says Rittiman. "Maybe because the presidential race is turning into a quasi-TV reality show. I don't know."

Iran can replace American efforts in the region with informed and constructive policies that define Tehran as a benevolent regional power. The Islamic Republic can also take the path of investing in some religious and political groups while excluding others.

Currently, the US and Western allies' major campaign in the Middle East is fighting the Islamic State while ignoring to address Iran's military engagements in other countries, ignoring Tehran's determination for regional supremacy seriously.

There have been rumors about Khamenei's health conditions for several years. Nevertheless, in the last few weeks, more and more images of Iran's Supreme Leader are emerging, reflecting his fragile and weak physical condition.