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Iran still holds leverage in the Strait of Hormuz after strikes
RFE/RL says the conflict has disrupted global shipping and that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced an economic onslaught of measures to isolate Iran on Aug. 24.
Six months after US and Israeli air strikes against Iran launched a wider conflict that has shaken energy markets and disrupted global shipping, there is still no clear endpoint, according to RFE/RL. While Iran’s military capabilities have suffered major damage, RFE/RL reports that Tehran retains leverage in the Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint for oil flows. RFE/RL interviews experts across Washington’s policy spectrum who say the next phase will be shaped by questions including how long Iran can withstand economic pressure, whether diplomacy can turn military gains into a durable settlement, what happens in the Strait of Hormuz, and whether Russia and China help Tehran rebuild. Retired Vice Admiral Robert Harward, a former deputy commander of US Central Command, described the situation as a “steady state” while arguing that sustained economic pressure could become an internal threat to Iran, RFE/RL reports. The outlet also notes that US policy has increasingly emphasized economic measures, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s announcement of an “economic onslaught” on Aug. 24, with additional pressure to be raised with G20 finance ministers.