As the U.S. midterm elections approach, Iran is intensifying its attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to exert maximum pressure on the U.S. government, particularly on Donald Trump, the President of the country. These attacks are intended to influence U.S. energy policies and energy prices.
Increase in Attacks and Their Consequences
According to Iranian officials, the Islamic Republic is focusing on intensifying its military operations in the Strait of Hormuz, which is considered one of the most important shipping routes in the world. This strait is significant as it accounts for about 20 percent of the world's oil, and Iran is targeting ships to influence global oil prices. Statistics indicate that in September, Iran's attacks on ships averaged 30 per week, and since the beginning of this month, the country has attacked more than 20 ships.
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Iran's New Strategy in the Strait of Hormuz
Iranian officials have announced that since early October, they have begun employing new aggressive tactics to target ships that they believe violate imposed restrictions. This change in the type and pace of attacks indicates a new strategy to pressure the U.S. and influence the midterm elections. According to data from the global data analytics company Kpler, oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz have approached pre-war averages on several days last month.
However, despite these attacks, the United States has managed to significantly increase oil exports from the Persian Gulf. Amna Baker, head of Middle East energy at Kpler, stated that as long as shipping costs and risks remain high, global energy prices will also stay elevated.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump has also announced an agreement with Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, to purchase oil from the country. This agreement includes the immediate supply of over 300,000 tons of diesel to global markets and another 500,000 tons in November.
Given the current conditions and economic crises, concerns among Iranian leaders are rising. According to a Western diplomat, Iran is increasing attacks in the Strait of Hormuz to gain leverage for peace negotiations to end the war. These developments could impact the outcome of the midterm elections and lead to a decline in Trump's popularity.
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