IRAN: Iran Reportedly Trying To Influence US Elections By Targeting International Oil Shipping
Iran is reportedly deploying new tactics to target commercial shipping in and beyond the Strait of Hormuz in a bid to keep global oil prices high and influence the upcoming US midterm elections in November, according to senior Iranian officials.
Tehran has sought to exert control over the vital trade corridor since US and Israeli strikes against Iranian infrastructure began on February 28.
The waterway, which carried roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas trade before the conflict, has suffered severe traffic disruptions, elevated insurance costs, and rising energy prices.
Two senior Iranian officials told Reuters that the country adopted a revised operational strategy about 10 days ago. While declining to disclose specific details, they indicated the changes involve shifts in both tempo and nature of attacks directed at vessels deemed in violation of Iranian maritime restrictions.
“The aim is to frustrate efforts by the United States and its allies to bring down global oil prices,” one official stated, adding that the strategy was formulated at the highest levels of Iran’s leadership.
A second official described the standoff as a strategic chess match, asserting Tehran intends to prevent US leadership from stabilizing or lowering oil prices ahead of the November ballot.
“Such vessels would be safe nowhere, even outside the Strait of Hormuz,” the official added.
Iranian sources also indicated operations are moving toward a near-complete closure of the waterway for unauthorized vessels.
According to Reuters, a US military official, speaking anonymously, confirmed Iranian forces have altered tactical patterns following extensive damage to coastal radar infrastructure.