by Nohad Topalian | 2026-08-06

Iran is currently paying the heavy price for its long-standing strategy of destabilizing the entire region.

Its notorious "drone empire" has effectively brought the world's various conflicts right to its own doorstep.

The Iranian regime's long track record involves launching over 1,480 drones at Gulf states and Houthi attacks against commercial maritime shipping in the Red Sea.

The regime also continues waging proxy wars throughout the Arab world to expand its influence and power.

"Iran's drones brought war to its borders. The country is facing a depletion and decline in military capabilities, especially as air defenses successfully shot down these drones," military expert and retired Brigadier General Marcel Baloukji told Al-Fassel.

Iran besieged on every front

Iran now faces a US naval blockade from the south and severe Israeli military strikes from the west.

Most importantly, Ukrainian drone attacks have begun hitting targets in the north, significantly increasing regional tensions.

After losing total control over the Strait of Hormuz, the Caspian Sea is now vulnerable today.

On July 25, Ukrainian drones targeted sanctioned cargo ships carrying military supplies to Russia from over 1,300 kilometers away, demonstrating their true reach.

The Caspian Sea trade corridor remains of vital importance to Russia for exchanging critical arms and oil between Moscow and Tehran.

This route also serves as a crucial supply line for Iranian Shahed drones, aiding the Russian war.

Baloukji explained that Iran's supply capabilities have become "weak due to total isolation from international blockades."

"The Strait of Hormuz and the Caspian Sea are restricted, severely limiting drones shipped to Russia," he added.

Shared interests spark defense ties

Iran's persistent threats have sparked new defense cooperation between Ukraine and Gulf nations to counter shared dangers.

Destroying Iranian drones on Caspian ships effectively reduces the immediate threat to critical Gulf infrastructure.

"The world suffers harm from Iran's terrorist practices. This confirms Iran is a state that engages in terrorism brazenly and without any restraint," Hassan Qutb, director of the Lebanese Center for Research and Consulting, told Al-Fassel.

"Tehran aims to inflict maximum damage on Europe and the Arab Gulf states through drone attacks," he added.

Exporting these drones to Russia makes Iran an active partner in the ongoing war on Ukraine.

Targeting Iranian vessels in the Caspian Sea curbs Iran's role and also cripples vital Russian infrastructure.

Ultimately, the Iranian regime's terrorism and threats against its neighbors and the world have backfired, bringing the war back home.