A relatively new government working to secure its own territory is poorly positioned to open a new front outside its borders, be it Lebanon or Iraq

Solving the country's acute power shortage is a priority for Zaidi, who is looking to strike much-needed investment deals with US companies, whilst also keeping Iran onside

From its hosting of US naval forces to its accession to the Abraham Accords, there are many reasons why Iran sees Manama as a justifiable target, but the shared animosity dates back decades

While it could be tied to military calculations related to the current US-Iran war, it also reflects a deeper struggle between two opposing regional visions

Tehran prioritises foreign power and influence, whereas the Gulf states prioritise economic development and stability. The presence of foreign bases in the Gulf is just an excuse.

Tehran has emerged from the US-Iran war more willing to take risks, less constrained by fears of escalation, and more convinced military pressure can yield results

He has defied America twice in recent days

Working with Israeli, Turkish, and US firms, Rabat is also aiming to build its own domestic defence-industrial capacity using its expertise in aerospace manufacturing

Netanyahu continues to defy calls from Washington to pump the brakes on Israel's offensive in Lebanon, something Iran has linked to a future peace deal