Iran's Shift in Tactics in the Strait of Hormuz
Ahead of the US elections, Iran has begun implementing new tactics to keep oil prices high and increase its attacks on maritime shipping.
According to information provided by Iranian and US officials, the Tehran administration has put new tactics into effect to increase attacks on maritime shipping in and around the Strait of Hormuz and to keep global oil prices high.
New Strategy in the Strait of Hormuz
Iranian officials stated that following the US and Israeli attacks at the end of February, they are trying to exert pressure on Washington by restricting transits in the Strait of Hormuz.
Senior officials stated that new attack tactics against vessels violating the restrictions were put into practice about ten days ago, and this situation has led to an increase in attacks.
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It was noted that one of the main objectives of the new strategy is to thwart the efforts of the US and its allies to lower global oil prices.
Assessments by US Military Officials
A US military official confirmed that after much of Iran's radar capabilities were damaged, it began using unarmed spotters in small boats.
Last week, US forces announced that they conducted an operation on a sailing vessel where Iranian spotters were operating, destroying the vessel with no casualties reported.
Expansion of the Area of Operations
It was stated that within the scope of the new strategy, the Tehran administration will move the operational geography beyond the Strait of Hormuz to the Gulf of Oman and more distant waters.
Iranian officials stated that they are moving towards a situation where no vessel violating the restrictions can pass through the strait and that they aim for a full closure in the near future.