Iran Plays for Time in Midterm Looming Trump Era
Iran and Oman are nearing an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but significant issues remain. Tehran would control inbound traffic while Oman oversees outbound shipping, with Iran seeking sanctions relief in exchange for toll-free passage. However, Washington opposes giving Iran control over shipping lanes, and the shipping industry has warned that proposed transit fees and existing U.S. sanctions could make the arrangement unworkable.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is being pulled back into Yemen as the Houthis continue to attack Saudi oil tankers and infrastructure. After weeks of escalating attacks, the Houthis launched ballistic missiles and drones against Saudi-backed government forces in Marib and Hadhramaut on August 6, killing dozens of troops. Riyadh has responded with strikes and created a multinational maritime coalition to protect the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb.
Earlier this week, U.S. Central Command sent an email seeking 'creative and unconventional ways to pressure and punish Iran.' Intelligence assessments have concluded that the existing air campaign would not likely force Iran into submission.