Gulf Analysis Paper: Iran's Maritime Evolution

As Iraq and Afghanistan fade from the headlines, Iran is likely to re-emerge as the preeminent security concern in the Middle East for the United States and its allies. Iran’s intransigence over its nuclear ambitions, its support for Shia opposition forces in the region, and material support for terrorist organizations are challenges that will likely persist for the foreseeable future. For all the public emphasis on Iran’s land-based operations, however, Iran’s maritime reorganization strategy and naval evolution will likely drive its most consequential regional engagements.

The assessments and opinions expressed here are the author's own and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Navy, the Department of Defense or CSIS.