Hormuz to Red Sea: How Iran is widening the war to gain leverage against US
How Iran is gaining leverage by widening the war
In recent months, Iran has expanded the scope of its conflict beyond the Strait of Hormuz to potentially gain more leverage against the United States. This strategic shift includes targeting the Red Sea and increasing confrontations with US warships in the Gulf. The Houthi forces, backed by Iran, have captured strategic ports in Yemen, such as Mocha and Perim Island, which could enable them to disrupt the Red Sea shipping lane.
This development has strengthened Iran's bargaining position, as highlighted by analysts from Eurasia Group. The rise in oil prices, reaching around $110 a barrel, also adds to Iran's leverage, as it increases costs for importing countries and poses a political challenge for US President Donald Trump. Iran has also stepped up attacks on US warships in the Gulf, while retaliating against Iranian crude carriers.
Although Iran remains under severe economic pressure from the US naval blockade and sanctions, the widening of the war to additional chokepoints has improved Tehran's negotiating position temporarily. The next significant development may come from negotiations between Iran and Oman, expected to discuss the future of the Strait of Hormuz, potentially leading to a diplomatic resolution that keeps the crucial waterway constrained for geopolitical gains.
Written by urgent.news from Gulf News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
