Iran considers its control over the Strait of Hormuz a crucial leverage point in negotiations with the United States. The country appears ready to gamble the cease-fire to maintain this advantage.
Recent days have seen a series of attacks initiated by Iran in relation to the Strait of Hormuz. These actions have put a newly established cease-fire at risk in an ongoing conflict that both Iran and the United States seem eager to conclude. However, analysts suggest that for Iran, these moves are strategic necessities.
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital passage for the global economy. Iran’s ability to disrupt traffic here serves as a key bargaining chip it cannot afford to relinquish, whether in negotiations or a potential return to conflict with the United States.
Last week, Oman and the U.N. International Maritime Organization introduced a route through the strait that uses only Omani waters. This change posed a potential challenge to Iran’s strategy, which rests on maintaining control over the entire waterway.
“Best-case or worst-case scenario, they need this leverage,” noted Ali Vaez, a senior Iran analyst at the International Crisis Group.
Future meetings between Iran and the United States remain uncertain. Yet, Iranian officials view their control over the strait as a primary tool to obtain concessions from the U.S.
Iran aims to secure relief from sanctions that have impacted the country for years. The anticipated nuclear deal could involve Iran surrendering or diluting its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, a material that could otherwise enable nuclear weapon construction.
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