Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

Analysts Warn of “Cold War-like” Phase Between US, Iran


(MENAFN) The ongoing tension between the United States and Iran shows no clear path toward resolution, with the dispute increasingly resembling a prolonged, low-intensity confrontation, according to a report cited by Axios and based on US officials’ assessments.

Officials describe the situation as having shifted into a “Cold War-like phase,” characterized by financial sanctions, naval interceptions, and intermittent discussions about potential negotiations. They warn that Washington risks becoming locked into a prolonged stalemate marked by neither active war nor diplomatic agreement.

In this scenario, US forces would likely remain deployed in the region for an extended period. The report suggests that key strategic chokepoints, including the Strait of Hormuz, could remain effectively constrained, while both sides wait for the other to make the first decisive move.

US President Donald Trump is reportedly weighing his options between further military action and relying on ongoing “maximum pressure” sanctions to push Iran toward negotiations. However, no final decision has been made.

With midterm elections approaching in roughly six months, some officials believe a prolonged frozen conflict could carry political and economic risks for the administration. One source described Trump as “frustrated but realistic,” noting, “He doesn't want to use force. But he's not backing down.”

The report also indicates that senior advisers are divided, with some urging continued economic pressure and maritime restrictions before any consideration of additional military strikes.

Discussions within the US leadership reportedly included an Iranian proposal that linked potential talks on reopening the Strait of Hormuz to easing restrictions on Iranian shipping. However, no agreement was reached, and Trump is said to have shown little willingness to accept terms that could delay negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program, which remains a central point of US policy.

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