Iranian officials have threatened attacks on the UAE and Bahrain, while a former MI6 chief claims Iran has regained the initiative in its conflict with the US.
Iran Prepares for Coastal Attacks
Iranian armed forces are prepared to occupy the coastlines of the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, potentially causing a “fundamental change in the balance of power in the region,” according to Iranian security analyst Morteza Simiari.
Simiari warned that entering the coasts of the UAE and Bahrain is “in the plans,” continuing Iran’s strategy of transferring the costs of war to regional neighbors and threatening global energy markets.
Tehran Shifts Conflict to Global Stage
Former MI6 chief Alex Younger stated that by blocking the Strait of Hormuz, Tehran has transformed a regional conflict into a global one.
US Initiative Lost Two Weeks Ago
According to Younger, the United States lost the initiative in the conflict with Iran approximately two weeks ago. He noted the resilience of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the country’s unexpected resistance.
Younger stated Iran implemented effective measures to disperse military potential and delegate authority to use weapons, increasing its resilience against air campaigns.
Iran’s “Horizontal Escalation” Strategy
Iran has begun a “horizontal escalation,” attacking with missiles anyone within their range, a strategy Younger described as surprisingly effective in increasing costs for the United States.
UAE Intercepts Hundreds of Missiles and Drones
The United Arab Emirates has intercepted 358 ballistic missiles and 1815 drones since the start of the war. Saudi Arabia and the UAE, initially opposed to a US attack on Iran, are now leaning towards supporting military action.
Saudi Arabia and UAE Offer US Support
Riyadh recently allowed the US to use King Fahd airbase in western Saudi Arabia. The UAE has also indicated its readiness for a long-term conflict and will not pressure Washington to end it.
