Iran Shows No Sign of Backing Down as Conflict with US Continues

The ongoing conflict between the US and Iran has seen some progress in recent weeks, with the US successfully loosening Iran's grip on the Strait of Hormuz. However, despite this development, the war is far from over, and its costs are mounting for both sides.

According to oil expert Homayoun Falakshahi, who compiled figures at global trade monitor Kpler, Iran's oil exports have dropped dramatically, from 1.85 million barrels a day last spring to around 255,000 in August. In contrast, non-Iranian oil exports rose from 300,000 barrels a day at the height of the war to 8.4 million in September.

Despite this progress, the US has yet to secure any significant concessions from Iran, and its leaders show no signs of backing down. 'Iran shows no sign of backing down, and instead has demonstrated a willingness to not only fight back, but escalate wherever it can,' said Mona Yacoubian, a Middle East expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

The economic pressure on Iran is severe, with prices surging due to the US blockade. However, this has yet to spark an uprising against its leaders. In fact, Tehran may opt for military escalation if backed into a corner, and could even respond through regional proxies.