Mar 1 • 13:02 UTC 🇶🇦 Qatar Al Jazeera

Why did Iran strike American bases in the Gulf and avoid Turkey and Azerbaijan?

Iran is escalating military tensions in the Gulf region by targeting Gulf states while avoiding conflict with Turkey and Azerbaijan, raising concerns about regional security.

Iran continues to target Gulf countries within the framework of escalating military tensions. The situation is further complicated by the ongoing exchange of political messages amid the widening war. Oman-based political analyst Dr. Mohammed Al-Aryami characterizes Iran's actions as a dangerous shift in the confrontation, warning it may broaden into a regional conflict. He vehemently dismisses Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi's justifications, asserting that attacking countries like Qatar and Oman—nations that have supported peace efforts and helped Iran during crises—is unacceptable.

Dr. Al-Aryami highlights that the area targeted in Oman was purely economic, specifically noting that it is an oil city with unique legal jurisdictions that differ from general Omani laws. This distinction implies that the attack on this economic zone represents a significant escalation in hostilities. Furthermore, the Omani news agency has reported that a drone strike targeted the Duqm commercial port, injuring a foreign worker in a mobile workers' housing unit, and debris from the attack posed further risks to the area.

This situation signals a potential shift in Iran's military strategy, indicating that it might deem traditional allies as legitimate targets despite their past support. As regional tensions continue to heighten, the implications of these attacks could lead not only to increased retaliation but also to efforts from other countries to mediate and de-escalate tensions in the region, particularly considering the diverse political landscapes and alliances in play.

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