Egyptian military and strategic expert, Dr. Ibrahim Othman Hilal, has weighed in on the current tensions between the US and Iran over the Strait of Hormuz. According to Hilal, the US is exerting significant political pressure on Iran. This pressure is part of a broader strategy that involves negotiations, which Hilal describes as "armed negotiations." The US is taking a firm stance against Iran, with Hilal noting that the American leadership is dealing with Iran through continuous pressure.
Hilal explained that the Strait of Hormuz is not entirely under Iranian control, contrary to some claims. While Iran has significant influence over the strait, with around 70% control, the actual authority is shared between Iran and Oman. The US, on the other hand, has a military presence hundreds of kilometers away from the strait. To ensure safe passage for its ships, the US typically deploys a substantial naval escort, consisting of 6-8 warships, and employs various forms of electronic warfare and cyber warfare.
The expert emphasized that neither the US nor Iran has complete control over the Strait of Hormuz. Hilal described the situation as a complex international issue that cannot be attributed to a single party. He also noted that the US claim of controlling the strait is not accurate, just as Iran's assertion of complete control is also not true. Both countries have a degree of influence, but the situation remains delicate.
Hilal's comments come amid rising tensions between the US and Iran. The strait is a critical waterway for global oil shipments, and any disruption to its operations could have significant economic implications. The US has been vocal about its military presence in the region, while Iran has been equally adamant about its right to defend its territorial waters. The situation has been closely watched by international observers, who fear that a miscalculation could lead to a wider conflict.
According to Hilal, the current negotiations between the US and Iran are part of a larger game of geopolitical maneuvering. The US is seeking to limit Iran's influence in the region, while Iran is trying to assert its dominance. The Strait of Hormuz has become a focal point in this struggle, with both sides jockeying for position. Hilal believes that the situation will continue to be volatile, with both sides engaging in a form of "armed negotiation."
The Egyptian expert also touched on the military capabilities of the US and Iran. He noted that the US has a significant military presence in the region, with advanced warships and electronic warfare capabilities. Iran, on the other hand, has developed its own military capabilities, including a range of ballistic missiles and naval vessels. The disparity in military strength between the two countries is significant, but Hilal believes that Iran's determination to defend its interests should not be underestimated.
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains a source of concern for international observers. With tensions running high between the US and Iran, the potential for a miscalculation or accident is ever-present. Hilal's comments offer a nuanced perspective on the situation, highlighting the complexities of the conflict and the need for a diplomatic solution. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the US and Iran will navigate their differences and find a way forward.
Key points
- The US is exerting significant political pressure on Iran over the Strait of Hormuz.
