How Iran Is Using War With US to Forever Reshape the Middle East
"Iran seeks to establish its position in the emerging regional order as a determining power," an Iranian analyst told Newsweek.
Iran is leveraging the ongoing conflict with the United States to solidify its control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil and gas trade. Deputy Editor at the National Security and Foreign Policy, Javad Heirannia, stated that Iran's primary objective is to transform its military gains and war pressures into a permanent advantage, specifically control over the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran's control over this vital waterway is seen as an irreversible reality, particularly by the United States.
Iran seeks to establish its position as a dominant power in the Middle East, aiming to consolidate control over the Strait of Hormuz and secure security guarantees. The recent war in Gaza has brought Iran's influence to the forefront, as its Axis of Resistance coalition, including Hezbollah, Ansar Allah, and the Popular Mobilization Forces, joined the conflict against Israel. Iran responded to the attacks with its own military actions, but managed to stay resilient despite being weakened by previous strikes.
Heirannia explained that Iran is reviving its Axis of Resistance through renewed investment and tactical changes, strengthening its levers and increasing pressure on adversaries. Iran has declared that attacks on any member of this axis are equivalent to an attack on its own vital infrastructure, promising a strong response. The regional powers, such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey, are also seeking to maintain their interests and influence in the evolving geopolitical landscape.
The shifting power dynamics have already affected the U.S. presence in the Middle East, with Gulf partners questioning the effectiveness of their security ties. The war has fundamentally altered the calculation regarding the United States' security umbrella and the role of oil in the region. As the regional order continues to evolve, Iran is strategically positioning itself as a determining power, utilizing its levers like the Strait of Hormuz and its network of proxy groups.
Written by urgent.news from Newsweek's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
