151. Iran’s Threat to Saudi Critical Infrastructure: The Implications of U.S.-Iranian Escalation
- Author:
- Seth G. Jones, Danika Newlee, Nicholas Harrington, and Joseph S. Bermudez Jr.
- Publication Date:
- 08-2019
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Center for Strategic and International Studies
- Abstract:
- Tensions between Iran and the United States have heightened concerns about the threat to critical infrastructure in the Persian Gulf, including in Saudi Arabia. This report argues that while Saudi Arabia has vulnerabilities in its oil, desalination, electricity, SCADA, shipping, and other systems, Iran has thus far adopted a calibrated approach. Tehran has conducted irregular attacks to infrastructure using offensive cyber weapons, naval ships to impede oil tankers, and partners like the Houthis in Yemen. The United States should focus on deterring further Iranian escalation, refraining from actions that threaten the regime’s survival, and providing a political “off ramp” for Iran to de-escalate.
- Topic:
- Energy Policy, Oil, Natural Resources, and Infrastructure
- Political Geography:
- Iran, Middle East, and Saudi Arabia