Shahram Khaldi, a researcher of Middle Eastern history and international relations, said the Islamic Republic, in the face of the United States’ military and economic pressures, relies on levers including the narrow geographic position of the Strait of Hormuz, the rebuilding of missile and drone capabilities, proxy forces, and domestic repression.

According to Khaldi, Tehran is trying to use the strategic position of the Strait of Hormuz to affect the timing of any possible attacks by the United States, while also increasing domestic pressures and controlling the space of Iranian society.