Coronavirus, Naval Forces, and Maritime Security in the Strait of Hormuz
Western naval operations already are disrupted by the pandemic, which Iran may view as an opportunity to increase its activities in the Gulf.
Contributor
Jean-Loup Samaan is an associate professor in strategic studies at the UAE National Defense College. The views expressed do not reflect those of the UAE National Defense College, the Near East South Asia Center for Strategic Studies, nor any government.
Western naval operations already are disrupted by the pandemic, which Iran may view as an opportunity to increase its activities in the Gulf.
By investing politically and economically in the small states of the Indian Ocean, both on its African and Asian shores, Gulf Arab states are positioning themselves as pivotal actors in the region.