The current escalation is heightening tension across the entire Middle East region: Elena Grebennikova

Elena Grebennikova, political scientist and member of the Digoria Expert Club, commented to Alpha News on the consequences of the new escalation between the US and Iran, as well as the risks for the Gulf states and the wider Middle East.

“Tehran continues to respond to US attacks by striking American military facilities on the Arabian Peninsula. At the same time, Iran is also calling on Arab monarchies to stop providing their territory for the deployment of US forces. Despite the Gulf states’ desire to reduce tension and their calls for a diplomatic settlement, Washington continues to act according to its own agenda. At the same time, the defense capabilities of these monarchies largely depend on the United States, which accordingly places certain constraints on these states,” Grebennikova said.

According to the expert, the current resumption of hostilities means not only rising security risks but also increasing energy, logistical, and reputational costs.

“It’s important to note that a distinctive feature of the current escalation is Saudi Arabia’s strikes on Yemen. In response, the Houthis may attempt to block the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, which Saudi Arabia uses for oil transport and export. This significantly heightens tension both for Iran and for the entire Middle East,” Grebennikova concluded.