I actually think your argument has some merit. not because air power alone can get the job done; it can't. I say that as a retired airman.
Remember Operation Desert Fox? This was Clinton's bombing campaign against Saddam's Iraq for throwing the 1st group of UN inspectors out in 1998. Of course it happened right at the House impeachment vote (tail wags dog vigorously).
How much damage did it do? Not much, but I was in favor of it in the sense it was better then letting Saddam think he could just do whatever he pleased without any repercussions.
Perhaps we need to start a long road of lessons to Iran. Face it, since Jimmy Carter and 1979, we have proved again and again to them that we're wimps. Any air campaign would have to be full shock and awe, no pussyfooting.
We wouldn't win anything but time, though. Eventually we'll have to escalate our activity against them.
I actually think your argument has some merit. not because air power alone can get the job done; it can't. I say that as a retired airman. Thank you, sir and thank you for you service.
Of course, a job is completed with boots on the ground but the clock is ticking and something has to be done, SOON.
The psychological effect on the whole terrorist world* is devastating. In addition, it conveys a very strong message to Russia, China, NK, and whoever is thinking of grand terrorist or aggressive schemes: who is the boss? It is the only superpower that will make you pay dearly for targeting its people, civilians and military.
I close by citing what you said and my full agreement on it. I add to that: It's about damn time!!
Any air campaign would have to be full shock and awe, no pussyfooting.
*Never used this combination before but unfortunately, it applies.