An Iranian scholar has warned that US and Israeli policies in West Asia aim to establish regional dominance through control of critical energy resources, amid escalating tensions following recent military strikes. Seyed Mohammad Marandi, a professor at Tehran University, made the remarks in a March 2026 interview with China Media Group, citing Washington's unwavering support for Israel despite growing international scrutiny.
Marandi claimed the Epstein document leaks and US backing of Israel's Gaza operations reveal a strategy to jointly control oil, natural gas, and strategic waterways in the Gulf region. "This isn't about security – it's about domination of West Asia's wealth and geography," he stated, describing the alliance as pursuing an "Israel First" agenda.
The comments follow significant military escalation in late February 2026 when US-Israel coalition forces conducted airstrikes targeting Iranian leadership and infrastructure. Subsequent Iranian retaliatory strikes against regional US bases and Israeli positions have raised concerns about broader conflict spillover.
Analysts note the developments coincide with renewed international focus on West Asia's energy corridors, particularly as global markets adapt to 2026's shifting geopolitical landscape. Regional governments are reportedly reassessing security partnerships amid the heightened tensions.
