Iran’s Growing Proxy Activity in the Middle East
Iran’s armed proxies are intensifying their operations throughout the Middle East as Tehran seeks to restore its regional influence, recently diminished by a nearly two-year-long Israeli military offensive.
Incidents in the Red Sea and Iraq
Last week, Tehran’s Houthi allies in Yemen broke a period of relative calm in the Red Sea by attacking two commercial vessels in this crucial maritime route. Additionally, proxies in Iraq are thought to be hindering oil production in the Kurdish region, while Syrian forces have intercepted multiple shipments of rockets intended for Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Tehran’s Commitment to Its Proxies
The escalation in proxy activities showcases Iran’s commitment to supporting a network of armed groups deemed vital for its deterrence strategy, despite their inability to curb ongoing Israeli and American operations on Iranian soil. Currently, both the U.S. and Iran seem reluctant to engage in significant compromises during potential negotiations over a renewed nuclear agreement.
Reinforcement of Military Ties
According to Michael Knights from The Washington Institute, the Iranian forces will likely continue supplying their affiliates. Although they may face more interception of supplies, for the Iranian Revolutionary Guards’ Quds Force, it’s essential to demonstrate their operational integrity.
Impact of Recent Attacks on Iran’s Military Infrastructure
Following an unprecedented Israeli assault last month that targeted high-ranking military officials within the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), including the commander critical to Iran’s proxy network, Iran continues its policy of arming these groups. This indicates a persistent belief in the strategic value of their proxy alliances.
Significant Weapon Interceptions
Just three days after a ceasefire was announced between Iran and Israel, U.S. forces revealed that they intercepted a ship carrying 750 tons of Iranian missiles and military equipment, which was intended for the Houthis. This interception represents the largest seizure of arms in the history of the Yemeni National Resistance Forces, backed by the U.S.
Continued Strikes and Regional Tensions
The Houthis have utilized Iranian weaponry to strike at both Israel and commercial shipping in the Red Sea. Recently, an attack on a Greek-owned vessel resulted in multiple casualties. Rising tensions are exacerbated by ongoing drone assaults against oil fields in Iraq, primarily targeting U.S. interests, and resulting in calls for intervention from the Kurdish Regional Government to protect their economic stability.
