US and Iran edge toward wider Middle East war

Photo — Tawseef Ahmad / Pexels

The confrontation has intensified after more than 100 days of a US blockade that Washington says has prevented billions of dollars in Iranian oil exports. Iranian officials have reportedly prepared plans to target Gulf undersea communications cables if the US and Israel launch another attack, while Israel’s prime minister has called for regime change in Tehran. The reported tanker incidents and threats against shipping make the Strait of Hormuz the immediate flashpoint, with potential consequences for oil markets, maritime security, and diplomatic efforts across the Middle East.

Sources: Gulf News, Reuters, The Strait Times, The Daily Star