The Trump administration escalated pressure on Iran to try to negotiate over its nuclear aims. Instead, Iran fought back with violent attacks. At critical points, each country misjudged the other.
Tag: Gulf of Oman Incident (June 2019)
Japan to Deploy Destroyer to Middle East
The rare overseas mission follows an attack on a Japanese oil tanker and increased American pressure to play a more active role in the region.
U.S. Commander Warns of Iranian Attack in Middle East
A top general said that America’s addition of 14,000 troops in the Persian Gulf since the spring would probably not deter Iran from carrying out a major strike.
Attack on Saudi Oil Facilities Tests U.S. Guarantee to Defend Gulf
The American hesitation to take military action may signal a weakening of its commitment to protect the Arab Persian Gulf and could embolden Iran.
Hard-Liners in Iran See No Drawback to Bellicose Strategy
Trying to win sanctions relief, officials in Tehran believe they can lash out against American allies without suffering serious penalties, analysts say.
Even as Tensions With Iran Rise Over Seized Ship, U.K. Stays ‘Committed’ to Nuclear Deal
Despite Iran’s seizure of a British oil tanker, Britain is not moving into closer collaboration with the Trump administration’s showdown with Iran.
U.K. Warns Iran of ‘Serious Consequences’ for Seizing Oil Tanker
The British defense secretary called the seizure “a hostile act,” and the government warned ships to avoid the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran Says It Aided Foreign Tanker, Amid Reports of Missing U.A.E. Ship
The Foreign Ministry said security forces recently helped a foreign tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, but did not identify the ship or its owner.
To Evade Sanctions on Iran, Ships Vanish in Plain Sight
Empty tankers, arriving in the Strait of Hormuz, suddenly stop reporting their whereabouts. When they re-emerge on the grid, their tanks appear full.
The Oil Market Shows It Can Take a Punch
The Persian Gulf crisis has not ignited a major price spike, thanks to growing oil production in the U.S. and a slowing in overall demand.