Dr. Clemens Chay

Researcher in the Geopolitical & Domestic Affairs of the Gulf Arab States

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Ten Days into the US-Israel Conflict with Iran: Experts React

Black smoke rises following an airstrike, as Iranians take part in the Al-Quds (Jerusalem) Day rally, a commemoration in support of the Palestinian people on the last Friday of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, in Tehran on March 13, 2026. Deadly explosions rocked Tehran close to a pro-government rally attended by top officials on March 13, as Israel and Iran unleashed fresh strikes in a war that has ignited the Middle East and threatens to torpedo the world economy. Since erupting on February 28 with US-Israeli attacks on Iran, the war has cascaded throughout the region, drawn in global powers, and sparked a major oil shock. (Photo by Elaheh ASIABI / FARS NEWS AGENCY / AFP) / “The erroneous mention appearing in the metadata of this photo modifies the source. Please immediately remove the erroneous mention[s] from all your online services and delete it (them) from your servers. If you have been authorized by AFP to distribute it (them) to third parties, please ensure that the same actions are carried out by them. Failure to promptly comply with these instructions will entail liability on your part for any continued or post notification usage. Therefore we thank you very much for all your attention and prompt action. We are sorry for the inconvenience this notification may cause and remain at your disposal for any further information you may require.”

Ten days into the United States (US)-Israel strikes on Iran, the conflict has entered a more entrenched phase. With air and maritime connectivity significantly disrupted and President Trump maintaining uncompromising rhetoric, Gulf leaderships find themselves navigating a precarious balance between containment and active self-defence.

Meanwhile, Iran has moved swiftly to fill the vacuum left by Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s assassination, with Mojtaba Khamenei — the Supreme Leader’s son — appointed as his successor, indicating the regime’s determination to project continuity despite ongoing strikes.

Observer Research Foundation (ORF) Middle East experts offer their concise analysis on the latest developments.

Read the full compilation HERE.

Between Washington and Tehran, both sides project defiance. But Iran is increasingly assuming the role of an absorber — sustaining American-Israeli assaults while continuing to launch regular strikes across the region. President Trump’s vacillating public comments suggest potential de-escalation avenues, yet his administration shows no readiness to back down — a stance that many analysts characterise as hubris.

– Clemens Chay

Clemens Chay

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