The Take Another Take: Iran, the US and the standoff in the Strait of Hormuz
Mar 14, 2026
Kimberly Halkett, a Washington-based Al Jazeera correspondent covering U.S. policy, and Zein Basravi, Al Jazeera’s Tehran-based reporter, explore the US–Iran standoff. They discuss rising tensions near the Strait of Hormuz. They cover US policy moves like IRGC designation and sanctions. They examine tanker sabotage claims, Iran’s strategic options, and on-the-ground dynamics in the strait.
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US Maximum Pressure Increased Escalation Risk
- The US intensified pressure by reimposing sanctions, labeling the IRGC as a terrorist organization, and ending oil waivers, forcing Iran into a corner.
- These moves escalated rapidly in April–May 2019, prompting Iran's 60-day deadline and regional military deployments.
Ambiguous Attacks Fueled Potential Miscalculation
- The Fujairah sabotage acted as a flashpoint with US investigators blaming Iran-linked actors without presenting public evidence.
- The ambiguity amplified tensions because damaged tankers and a hole-in-the-side video created fear despite no casualties.
Strait Of Hormuz Is Iran's Strategic Lever
- The Strait of Hormuz is a chokepoint Iran can quickly interdict, making it a potent lever over global oil flows.
- Zein Basravi likened it to a 12-lane highway crowded with tankers and Iranian vessels able to control traffic.