PNN – Trump would like to find a way to pressure Iran without cost and disaster, but there is no such option.
According to the report of Pakistan News Network, MSNBC analyst Zeeshan Aleem wrote in a note that the launch of a US naval blockade against Iran, just like the previous unsuccessful air campaign, has little benefit and could have major negative consequences. The most worrying drawback is that the blockade may inadvertently bring new countries into the war. Some of the main points of the report are as follows:
- Sloppy Execution
Trump initially said the blockade would cover the entire Strait of Hormuz, but US Central Command later said the blockade would only apply to ships entering and leaving Iranian ports. NATO allies have refused to participate, and Saudi Arabia is reportedly asking Trump to end it. This shows that Trump’s plan was a shambles from the start.
- The ambiguous status of the ceasefire
The strangest thing about Trump’s blockade is that he is implementing it during a ceasefire that was supposed to be a cessation of hostilities. This action has left the existing ceasefire in an ambiguous and uncertain state.
- Domestic Costs for the US
The most obvious immediate cost of the blockade is that, in addition to the almost complete closure of the Strait by Iran, it is putting further pressure on energy prices. The blockade has caused oil prices to jump and put a huge strain on the agricultural industry.
- The most dangerous aspect of the blockade
The most dangerous aspect of the blockade may be its enforcement against third countries. The American language suggests that Chinese ships could be stopped by the US Navy and their cargoes possibly seized. How would China react to such a scenario? This carries the risk of escalating war.
- Conclusion
MSNBC concludes that Trump would like to find a way to pressure Iran without cost, but such options do not exist. He is trying to avoid failure but seems to be heading for a bigger failure.