Dangerous dance in the Gulf
The US and Iran have thus far reacted to a string of provocative moves more in word than deed, but the potential for miscalculation is high
The summer has passed without any of the direct military clashes in the Gulf between US and Iranian forces that many had feared. But the autumn holds scant prospect of an early resolution of the crisis, and thus for reducing the risk of even an accidental misstep into war. And two external factors risk further ratcheting up the tension—the impact of the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) withdrawal from the battle against the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen; and the 2020 US presidential election. Any number of incidents over the past few months could have triggered a military confrontation in the Gulf. President Donald Trump in June came close to ordering airstrikes against Iranian targets in retaliat
Also in this section
14 January 2026
Chavez’s socialist reforms boosted state control but pushed knowledge and capital out of the sector, opening the way for the US shale revolution
14 January 2026
Leading economies in the region are using oil and gas revenues to fund mineral strategies and power hyperscale computing
14 January 2026
The South American country offers stable, transparent and high-potential opportunities and is now ready for fresh exploration and partnership
13 January 2026
Across Europe, countries have grappled with balancing ambitious energy transition plans with realities about security of supply
