Dks01 Shame is always entirely counterproductive in human and diplomatic relations
Shame is indeed an important motivator and often overlooked tool in dealing with bad actors. Whether it be the pedophile, rapist, or terrorist regime. Shame helps to motivate remorse, regret, contrition, and a change in behavior. The “feelings” of a perpetrator should not be coddled, and an offender should feel bad in the self recognition of his bad acts. The inability of, or protection from, feeling empathy for those you’ve wronged is not helpful.
By now, after recent events, there are surely some in the regime who are now experiencing self regret over the culmination of the last 40 or so years of what they’ve been involved in. That’s a good thing. Having to consider and acknowledge the hellish ideological environment they’ve put their citizens under all these years is a good thing. They should feel ashamed. Shame and remorse should replace pride and arrogance. You should feel bad when you hurt other people through a hateful ideology.
Your use of Japan is a perfect example of American imperialism, not motivation.
Actually, it was an example of Allied justice. Imperial Japan was a brutal and repressive empire, while the allies fought for freedom and not Imperialism. Recognition of its bad acts by Imperial Japan’s leadership transformed the country for the better. A similar route is needed for the Iranian regime.