Iran's Attacks on Gulf Energy Infrastructure: A Strategy for Regime Survival

Iran has been targeting energy facilities across the Middle East, including the world's largest liquefied natural gas hub in Qatar on March 18, in retaliation for Israeli strikes. Subsequent attacks have hit a Saudi refinery on the Red Sea and set two Kuwaiti oil refineries ablaze. According to an expert on military strategy, these attacks on Gulf energy facilities are part of a broader strategic agenda employed by the regime in Tehran to ensure its survival. Since the start of the conflict, Iran's attacks on energy infrastructure have been accompanied by missile and drone strikes against US military bases and infrastructure in the region. These attacks have killed seven American service personnel. The regime has looked to demonstrate its capacity and capability to international audiences and the Iranian population, including those responsible for maintaining Iran's internal security. The ability to exercise force has long been central to maintaining the regime's domestic political position in Iran, demonstrated by the repression of protest movements over the past decade.