The ongoing military friction between Iran and the United States in the Strait of Hormuz is being driven fundamentally by Tehran's nuclear ambitions, rather than solely by regional security concerns, according to new analysis.
A university lecturer argues that Iran's intentions regarding a nuclear weapons programme have become even more opaque since the conflict began, creating a strategic fog that complicates diplomatic resolution.
This assessment comes as the US signals an imminent deal to reopen the Strait, a development that recently sent oil prices tumbling.
However, the persistence of nuclear ambiguity suggests that any agreement to lift transit restrictions may be fragile.
Iran has submitted a draft memorandum to the United States proposing the immediate reopening of the Strait in return for a temporary lifting of American oil sanctions, according to Iranian state media.
The disconnect between tactical concessions on shipping and strategic nuclear posturing remains a key risk for energy markets.