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Thursday April 25, 2024

Iran’s options

January 17, 2020

The assassination of top Iranian general Qassem Soleimani has exacerbated the ongoing tensions in the Middle East. Some people believe this incident to be the prelude to World War III, which to me is a useless argument in the context of the 21st century. Furthermore, many see a direct war between Iran and the US; this is highly unlikely given Iran’s fragile economic condition.

In my opinion Iran doesn't have any option other than to bear the loss of its most important commander; should it decide to retaliate, however, it has to do so wisely. Initiating proxy wars and/or disrupting the flow of oil through the Strait of Hormuz are probably its best options.

Chakrani Khadim Hussain

Lahore