Tensions over Iran’s nuclear programme and control of the Strait of Hormuz intensified after political scientist and analyst Robert A. Pape warned that Tehran is unlikely to surrender either the strategic waterway or its stockpile of enriched uranium.
In a post on his verified X account, Pape said Iran was making clear that it “will not give up Hormuz or enriched uranium for 10+ working nuclear bombs,” adding that the Islamic Republic could soon emerge as a “fourth world power center.” He also warned that the United States was facing growing pressure to escalate the conflict.
Pape’s remarks came as the United States and Iran entered a fragile two-week ceasefire after weeks of military confrontation across the Middle East. The ceasefire includes a tentative agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes. However, Tehran has insisted that any shipping through the waterway remain under Iranian military supervision.
At the centre of the dispute is Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium. Iranian officials have reportedly demanded that Washington accept the country’s continued uranium enrichment programme as part of any broader settlement.
Meanwhile, the administration of Donald Trump has maintained that Tehran must either surrender the material or face further military action. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said Iran would hand over its enriched uranium or the US would “take it out.” Read_More…