"First of all we have to recognize that despite all the problems - and in some cases failures - that this regime has been much more successful, much more resilient, than people had anticipated"

This quote by Mitchell Reiss is referring to a specific routine, and is suggesting that despite the problems and failures that this regime has actually experienced, it has actually been more effective and durable than individuals had actually anticipated. This might be analyzed as an indication of hope, as it indicates that the program has the ability to overcome its troubles and continue to succeed. It could also be analyzed as a warning, as it recommends that the routine is more effective and resistant than people had anticipated, and could be tough to challenge. Ultimately, this quote is a pointer that the program in question is not to be underestimated, and that it can conquering its problems and continuing to be successful.