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Escalating Tensions: U.S. and Iran in the Persian Gulf
Updated 04:50, 03-Aug-2023
Omar Elwafaii
Asia;Iran

The U.S. is significantly amplifying its military presence in the Persian Gulf, a strategic move in response to Iran's advancing nuclear program and what it sees as recent aggressive actions. 

Escalating Tensions: U.S. and Iran in the Persian Gulf
Escalating Tensions: U.S. and Iran in the Persian Gulf
Escalating Tensions: U.S. and Iran in the Persian Gulf
Escalating Tensions: U.S. and Iran in the Persian Gulf

This intensification comes as Iran continues to enrich uranium closer to weapons-grade levels, following the collapse of the 2015 nuclear deal which was put into disarray after the U.S. unilaterally pulled out and reimposed sanctions. Efforts to revive the deal appear stalled, making the situation worse.

Iran has resumed seizing ships in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for 20% of the world's oil. Iran says the seizures are related to either legal disputes or incidents where a ship collided with another.

The U.S. says it remains committed to ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remains open for shipping, a crucial step to prevent global energy price spikes and to support the Gulf Arab nations' oil market access.The escalating U.S. military buildup and Iran's actions have heightened the risk of conflict in the region, experts say. 

Escalating Tensions: U.S. and Iran in the Persian Gulf
Escalating Tensions: U.S. and Iran in the Persian Gulf
Escalating Tensions: U.S. and Iran in the Persian Gulf
Escalating Tensions: U.S. and Iran in the Persian Gulf

Iran's leaders have criticized the U.S. deployment, arguing for regional self-security, and have showcased their long-range Abu Mahdi cruise missile.

While the U.S. relies on military might to deter Iran's aggressive actions, this approach leaves other issues between the two nations unresolved, further inflaming the already volatile situation. 

The current state of U.S.-Iran relations remains precarious, with the potential for rapid change and escalation.

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