American Prestige Special - Iran War: Strait of Hormuz, Regional Escalation, Casualty Figures (Preview)
Mar 20, 2026
An update on the Iran conflict, covering the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and who can pass. Discussion of strikes on South Pars and their effects on Gulf energy infrastructure. Reports on casualty figures across Iran, Lebanon, and others. Consideration of U.S. and Israeli targeting of Iranian leaders and the prospect of a wider ground invasion.
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South Pars Strike Seems Isolated
- The South Pars gas field bombing did not trigger sustained energy attacks across the region.
- Derek Davison reports the strike appears isolated so far and hasn't forced a permanent escalation in energy infrastructure attacks.
Strait Of Hormuz Became The War's Focal Point
- The Strait of Hormuz has become the central focal point of the Iran war despite not being a problem pre-conflict.
- Daniel Bessner says the U.S. now treats reopening the strait as a primary war aim while Israel cares less about it, creating a Kafkaesque shift in priorities.
Selective Openings In Strait Of Hormuz
- Iran is selectively allowing some ships to leave while keeping the Strait largely closed.
- Daniel Bessner notes Iranian tankers and vessels from countries with arrangements are departing, but it's closed to most traffic.