Former US national security official Robert Harward has stated that the United States is executing a coordinated military and economic strategy aimed at compelling Iran to concede. This strategy includes intercepting Iranian vessels attempting to breach a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, which has seen heightened tensions following a US naval blockade. Harward emphasized that the ongoing blockade is economically straining Iran, suggesting that the Iranian government may eventually return to the negotiation table. Despite these pressures, Iran has denied claims of agreeing to further peace talks with the US, citing excessive demands and the blockade as reasons for its refusal. The US strategy also targets Iran's regional influence, particularly its support for proxy groups like Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis, by diminishing its economic resources. Harward expressed confidence that this approach will lead to a significant shift in Iran's stance regarding nuclear ambitions and regional activities.