WATCH: Warnings to Hegseth about war in Iran are 'significant': Analyst

Iranian studies expert Nabil Al-Atoum has stated that recent US strikes aim to weaken Iran's military capabilities and secure the Strait of Hormuz. Al-Atoum, director of the Iranian Studies Program, provided insight into the motivations behind the latest escalation between the United States and Iran during an interview with Al Arabiya FM.

He explained that the US strikes on Iranian sites are part of American efforts to deplete Iran's military strength and prevent any further targeting of the Strait of Hormuz. Al-Atoum highlighted that the US strikes specifically targeted a crucial location at the eastern entrance of the Strait of Hormuz, with the goal of diminishing Iran's capacity to interfere with maritime navigation and reinforcing Washington's commitment to ensuring the waterway remains open.

He noted that these strikes struck an interconnected network of Iranian capabilities and suggested that they may mark the beginning of more extensive military operations by the United States. In response, Iran is likely to demonstrate its resolve and capacity to counter such actions.