🖊Amir Azimi, BBC Persian

At first glance, Iran’s surprise attack a few days ago on an American base in Jordan seemed like an inexplicable move. In practice, this attack effectively put an end to a several-day pause in direct fighting between the United States and Iran and prompted Washington to resume attacks inside Iran.

If Tehran’s priority had been to achieve a ceasefire, explaining this attack would have been even more difficult. But if Iran’s leaders believe that a controlled and limited confrontation can give them a stronger lever of pressure, then this decision becomes understandable.

One possible explanation is that Tehran believes that, despite all the risks, a limited war serves its interests more than peace.

At present, it does not appear that either side is ready to enter an all-out war. Washington has shown little inclination to broaden the war in the region—a war that could threaten the region’s energy infrastructure, draw more countries into it, raise the price of oil, and put additional pressure on America’s military resources. Continue from:

📷Getty/ EPA