Iran continues to be recognized as a key player in regional and global equations, and despite severe economic and military sanctions from the United States, it has preserved its pressure levers against this country. The pressures that may seemingly weaken Iran's economy do not prevent Tehran from utilizing these levers.
The Strait of Hormuz; Iran's Vital Lever
The Strait of Hormuz, as one of the most important strategic points in the world, plays a significant role in Iran's bargaining power. Although the flow of oil through this route has decreased due to sanctions, Iran still has the ability to control this vital passage. It is important to note that the United States can ensure the security of passage by escorting oil tankers, but this action will incur significant military and security costs. Thus, Tehran can act as a pressure lever by threatening to close the Strait of Hormuz.
Read more: Iran launches dozens of drones and rockets at ships in the Strait of Hormuz every week
Missile Capabilities and Threat to Infrastructure
Another lever for Iran is its missile capability, which is considered a serious threat to the region's vital infrastructure. Experts believe that this capability could target production, refining, and oil transportation facilities in countries hosting American forces and even American bases themselves. For this reason, Iran can impose significant economic and security costs on the United States and its allies through these levers.
Additionally, Iran can reduce the pressure from maritime blockade through land and rail routes, especially in connection with China via the Caucasus. Thus, Iran's pressure levers are not limited to oil and the Strait of Hormuz, but there is also the ability to increase security costs for the United States and its allies in this regard. In fact, even with the success of sanctions, the United States faces a complex challenge: increased pressure may weaken Iran's economy, but at the same time, it could enhance Tehran's motivation to use regional levers.
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