Negar Mortazavi, senior fellow at the International Policy Center, said the U.S.-Iran confrontation appears to be escalating toward hot conflict and that the memorandum of understanding has not been honored. From Iran's perspective the U.S. has breached multiple terms. Mortazavi warned the unfolding conflict will be 'painful' for Iran — a maritime blockade would inflict an economic shock — and would also be 'painful' for the U.S.; any clash in the Strait of Hormuz would disrupt global markets an

Negar Mortazavi, senior fellow at the International Policy Center, said the U.S.-Iran confrontation appears to be escalating toward hot conflict and that the memorandum of understanding has not been honored. From Iran's perspective the U.S. has breached multiple terms. Mortazavi warned the unfolding conflict will be 'painful' for Iran — a maritime blockade would inflict an economic shock — and would also be 'painful' for the U.S.; any clash in the Strait of Hormuz would disrupt global markets and increase political pressure on President Trump.