The U.S. has conducted strikes against Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen and Hamas in Gaza, leaving Iran uncertain about its response. Iranian officials are engaging diplomatically with Russia to strengthen ties while condemning U.S. military aggression. However, Iran’s support for its proxies is in jeopardy, raising questions about its regional influence.
In recent days, the U.S. has intensified attacks on Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen, while simultaneously striking Hamas in Gaza. This coordinated military action has placed Iran in a state of confusion, as it grapples with how to respond without inviting escalation, which it is ill-prepared to handle. Iran’s Supreme Leader has advised against trusting overtures from the Trump administration, complicating Tehran’s strategic options further.
Amidst these developments, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi met with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko in Tehran. They expressed a desire to enhance bilateral relations and promote regional stability. Notably, Iran has been supplying kamikaze drones to Russia for deployment against Ukraine. Araqchi emphasized strengthening ties with Russia and underscored the importance of their international collaboration, particularly in discussions on nuclear issues held in China.
Araqchi also condemned U.S. and U.K. military actions in Yemen, along with Israeli actions against Palestinians, during an event with foreign ambassadors. He called upon Muslim nations to take action during Ramadan to support these causes. This reflects Iran’s strategy of leveraging diplomacy as a response to U.S. and Israeli military operations.
Iran aims to pursue multiple objectives: cultivating ties with Russia and China, reducing current sanctions, and advancing “Islamic” initiatives against U.S. interests. Iranian representatives, including Ambassador Amir-Sa’eed Iravani, decried U.S. aggression and provocative rhetoric from American officials, including President Trump. This diplomatic approach raises questions about Iran’s ongoing support for its allies, like the Houthis, whom it has historically bolstered. If Iran fails to act decisively, it risks undermining its network of proxies, which could devolve from strategic assets into liabilities.
Iran faces significant strategic dilemmas amidst U.S. military actions against its proxies in Yemen and Gaza. While it seeks to strengthen alliances with Russia and China, it must balance its military support for allies like the Houthis against the risks of escalation. Iran’s diplomatic efforts are critical for navigating these tensions, as it faces the potential collapse of its regional influence if it does not support its proxy forces effectively.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
