Iran isn't Iraq.
There is quite a difference between a country that was controlled (and weakened) for over a decade by UN-sanctions against pretty much everything and a country that could buy anything it wants on the world market.
Not to forget, Iraq was ruled by a secular ruler, unlike Iran. In addition to that, Saddam wasn't exactly popular in parts of the population. I think you could expect the Iranians to defend their country a bit more fanatically than the Iraqis did, especially if their government plays the " the west wants to destroy the Islam" card.
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You're absolutely right. Besides, I don't think the republicans wants to lose all remaining chances of a reelection.