Military and diplomatic analyst Alexandru Hudisteanu stated that the escalating conflict between the US and Iran has evolved into a "face-saving" battle, potentially further destabilizing the region. This escalation pattern, coupled with the ongoing tug-of-war over the Strait of Hormuz, could create a near-normalized state of conflict in the region. However, he also noted that the US lacks the willingness to pursue a large-scale military solution, leaving both sides with no choice but to seek diplomatic solutions. Diplomatically, Iran is attempting to make overly extreme demands, making negotiations extremely difficult.
Long before the war, Iran had already been frequently engaging in activities in the Gulf region, such as using shipping as leverage to harass passing vessels. Essentially, this has evolved into a face-saving battle, and we are seeing this in both the US and Iran.
