New Delhi: Tensions in the Middle East have eased somewhat following a reduction in US airstrikes against Iran; however, the conflict is far from over, and no consensus has been reached regarding the hostilities. The theatre of conflict has shifted from military bases or residential areas to maritime routes. The US Navy has intensified its maritime blockade against Iran in the Strait of Hormuz, the Gulf of Oman, and the Arabian Sea.
The US has stated that it is maintaining close surveillance on ships bound for Iran and is taking strict action against those violating regulations. Washington appears to be taking a hard line regarding maritime corridors, to ensure the continuity of trade.
Key Information from US Central Command
According to US Central Command, 12 commercial vessels heading toward Iran were forced to alter their courses by July 25. Two of these ships were disabled after failing to comply with orders despite multiple warnings. Additionally, US troops boarded and inspected two other vessels to ensure full compliance with the blockade.
As part of this operation, a boarding mission was conducted in the Arabian Sea on the Comoros-flagged oil tanker M/T Charminar; the vessel was permitted to proceed after the inspection was completed. Meanwhile, on July 24, US forces intercepted and disabled the Mozambique-flagged M/T Lavin in the Gulf of Oman.
US Planning a Lethal Strike on Iran
This marks the second time in 15 days that the US has refrained from conducting overnight airstrikes on Iran. Iran’s Ministry of Health has not confirmed any such activity; indeed, no US attacks have taken place since July 24. Nevertheless, military activities in Washington continue unabated.
On July 24, US President Donald Trump held a meeting with senior officials at the White House to discuss future strategies regarding Iran. According to reports, options such as ground military action and expanding the scope of attacks were also considered during this meeting.
Iran Targets US Airbase
It is worth noting that Iran is also retaliating against US attacks. It has targeted American military bases in the Middle East. Iran has now altered its attack strategy; in the last 24 hours, it has focused on targeting a single US military base located in Bahrain.
Previously, Iran had been continuously attacking US bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan. According to analysts, Tehran is now calibrating its retaliatory strikes in response to US actions. Iran is claiming to have inflicted heavy damage in its attacks on US military bases. At present, there appears to be very little hope of finding a middle ground between the two nations.
