Iran's Asymmetric Strategy: Striking Jordan to Weaken US-Israel Alliance; Threatening Gulf Energy Infrastructure

Iran has adopted a calculated asymmetric move by striking Jordan instead of Israel directly, punishing the host to weaken the alliance system and degrade Jordanian air defenses. Additionally, Iran explicitly threatens Gulf energy infrastructure if the US resumes strikes, using regional leverage to force diplomacy. Saudi Arabia urges restraint and redefines its role. This aligns with Iran's indirect approach and adds a new dimension to the war's evolving logic. Iran's economic collapse (62% inflation) may be driving internal pressure for a deal, but hardliners resist. Houthi attacks on Saudi tankers in the Red Sea further widen the conflict.