The Inside Story Podcast What strategy is Iran playing in the Gulf states and beyond?
Mar 25, 2026
Elijah Magnier, Brussels-based military and political analyst; Mehran Kamrava, Georgetown Qatar professor of Gulf politics; Foad Izadi, Tehran professor of foreign policy. They discuss Iran’s continued attacks and diplomatic moves with neighbours. The strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz and options like transit control or fees. Debate on Iran’s capacity for sustained missile and drone campaigns and regional leverage.
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Iran Seeks Regional Talks Not US Negotiation
- Iran is pursuing diplomatic talks with regional neighbors, not the United States, to pressure for an end to the war.
- Foad Izadi says Iran is engaging Egypt, Turkey and Pakistan while urging attacks on Iran to stop to enable talks and reduce civilian losses.
Strait Of Hormuz Is The Central Leverage Point
- The conflict has focused on the Strait of Hormuz where control yields major leverage over global energy transit.
- Elijah Magnier explains holding territory there can be politically staged but not easily defended against Iranian rejection.
Demand Compensation Before Relinquishing Strait Leverage
- Iran will demand compensation or concrete concessions before yielding leverage over the Strait of Hormuz.
- Foad Izadi lists options: cash deposits from US/Israel, payments from regional states, or a joint Strait authority with Oman and transit fees.