DUBAI, March 26: Iran and the United States are at a deepening impasse as tensions escalate in the Middle East. Both sides have hardened positions, with Washington sending thousands more troops to the region while Tehran tightens control over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil route.
Iran has restricted ship movements and is reportedly charging fees for safe passage, disrupting trade and driving oil prices sharply higher.
The conflict has intensified militarily, with Israel launching airstrikes on Iranian targets, including key infrastructure and military sites, while Iran continues missile attacks across Israel and Gulf nations.
Civilian and military casualties are rising across multiple countries, with significant damage reported in Iran, Israel, Lebanon, and neighboring regions.
The US has outlined ambitious goals, including curbing Iran’s nuclear and missile programs and ending its regional influence.
However, Iran appears focused on endurance, viewing survival as a potential victory while leveraging its control over Hormuz to pressure global economies.
Diplomatic efforts remain stalled. The US claims negotiations are ongoing via intermediaries, but Iran denies any talks.
Both sides have presented competing proposals, leaving little room for resolution without further escalation, as the conflict approaches the one-month mark.
Bab el-Mandeb: Iran’s next choke point after Hormuz
Iran has warned it may block the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, opening a new front in the conflict after tensions over the Strait of Hormuz.
The threat follows concerns about possible US or Israeli action against Iran’s Kharg Island and increasing military activity in the region.
Iran says any attack on its territory could lead to retaliation, including shutting key sea routes.
The Bab el-Mandeb lies between Yemen and the Horn of Africa and connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden.
It is a crucial trade route, carrying about 12% of global seaborne oil and large volumes of liquefied natural gas.
It also links major shipping lanes to the Suez Canal. Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen have already targeted vessels in the Red Sea, raising fears they could help enforce a blockade.
If the strait is closed, global trade would be heavily disrupted. Ships would need to take longer routes around southern Africa, increasing travel time and costs.
Oil prices could rise further, adding pressure to the global economy. Some shipping companies have already begun avoiding the route.
Although less critical than Hormuz, disruption in both waterways could severely impact global energy supplies and trade.
Trump warns Iran to get serious on negotiations
Without offering a specific threat, US President Donald Trump on Thursday said on Truth Social that Iranian leaders should engage “before it is too late, because once that happens, there is NOT TURNING BACK.” The post comes a day after Trump insisted a deal is near.
He said again Thursday that Iran is “’begging’ us to make a deal” after the US pitched a 15-point ceasefire plan that Iran rejected. (Agencies)
