Iran Sponsors Attacks and Escalates Tensions throughout the Region

Iran-backed attacks on U.S. forces and allies in early January represent Iran’s ongoing effort to avenge the killing of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps – Qods Force commander Qasem Soleimani two years ago.
Strategically, Iran seeks to show that it can threaten the United States or its allies anywhere in the region, and at any time.
Iranian leaders calculate that the attacks will cause the United States to further reduce its military footprint in the region and will intimidate regional adversaries.