Russian Expert: U.S. Dual Blockade of the Strait of Hormuz Is Meaningless and Will Backfire on Washington
Rajab Safarov, Director of Russia's Center for Modern Iran Studies, said in an interview with TASS that every move the United States has made so far in its conflict with Iran has only worsened its own position, and blocking the Strait of Hormuz will be no exception.
The expert emphasized: "The U.S. position is increasingly deteriorating, while Iran's position is steadily strengthening. The Iranians are fully aware of this."
Safarov stated that Tehran has no incentive to accept a peace agreement under conditions proposed by the United States or to yield to pressure. Moreover, he believes the U.S. will ultimately be forced to make concessions.
Safarov warned: "The United States is risking alienating almost all countries around the globe."
He explained that although blocking Iranian oil exports would inflict losses on Iran, Iran could still survive. However, the consequences for exporters in the Persian Gulf states, as well as large energy-dependent economies in Asia and the developing world, would be far more devastating. According to the expert's forecast, oil prices could reach $150 per barrel by the end of this week.
Trump announced on April 12 that the United States would impose a blockade on all vessels attempting to enter or exit the Strait of Hormuz. He also instructed the U.S. Navy to track and intercept any ships paying tolls to Iran.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1862377311277059/
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