Efforts by Persian Gulf countries to prevent a renewed start to the war have intensified. The leaders of these countries, who—because they host U.S. bases—have borne the brunt of the Islamic Republic’s retaliatory attacks, are calling for de-escalation.

At the same time, based on what has been published in the media so far, it is expected that in a possible round of attacks by the United States and Israel, in addition to nuclear and military targets, Iran’s civilian infrastructure—including power plants and refineries—will also be targeted; attacks that could be far more extensive and severe than the 40-day war.

Interview with Manouche Amird, Middle East affairs expert.