A new US intelligence assessment has raised doubts about whether Washington’s naval blockade can force Iran to back down anytime soon, as tensions continue escalating across the Middle East.
According to a CIA analysis cited by reports, Iran may be able to survive the US-led blockade for several more months without facing critical economic collapse, limiting Washington’s immediate pressure on Tehran.
The warning comes as Britain redeploys a Royal Navy destroyer to the Middle East, where it could support multinational operations near the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes.
The United States imposed the naval blockade on April 13 after Iran-linked attacks on commercial vessels disrupted global trade and energy supplies. Since then, Tehran has repeatedly insisted it will only return to negotiations if the blockade is lifted.
The Strait of Hormuz remains at the center of the crisis, with fears growing that any prolonged disruption could send global oil prices soaring and deepen international economic uncertainty.
Meanwhile, Washington is still waiting for Iran’s response to a new US proposal aimed at formally ending the conflict and reducing military tensions in the region.
Security analysts warn the standoff could become one of the most dangerous global flashpoints of 2026 if diplomatic efforts fail.