Iranian leaders are working to deter a renewed U.S. air campaign by threatening “zero red lines” retaliation throughout the region, including against U.S. military personnel.
Any Iranian strike that causes mass U.S. casualties or damages a U.S. warship risks setting off significant U.S. escalation on Iranian civilian targets.
Recent U.S. intelligence suggests Iran might attack high-value U.S. or allied targets, but Iran’s track record with such attacks is poor.
Some hardline Iranian commanders advocate a ground offensive against the Arab Gulf states, an option that would likely expose Iran’s military shortcomings.
by Soufan Center Washington Postures for Potential Escalation in the Conflict with Iran
