Just More Water Under the Bridge

I've always said that the idea that Iranians will automatically rally to the mullahs if we openly oppose the mullahs is nonsense. People in opposition will often turn to foreign sources of help without worrying that they'll be tainted. Local enemies are enemies and distant friends are useful.

Interestingly enough, some brave American dissidents opposing the Reagan regime sought out foreign help, without worrying that they would be tainted by that support, by reaching out to the Soviets:

Kennedy's message was simple. He proposed an unabashed quid pro quo. Kennedy would lend Andropov a hand in dealing with President Reagan. In return, the Soviet leader would lend the Democratic Party a hand in challenging Reagan in the 1984 presidential election.

A lovely man. A far cry from bearing any burden to oppose the Soviets.

Although the paying any price part was apparently still operative.