Iran & Esmail Qaani

Iran: Iran is the central entity; the funeral of its supreme leader highlights internal divisions and economic challenges, potentially affecting its political stability and international relations.

Esmail Qaani: Esmail Qaani, head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' Quds Force, made a rare public appearance at the funeral, highlighting the continued importance of the Quds Force in Iran's foreign operations.

Iran: Iran is backing the Houthis and has an ongoing blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, contributing to the overall maritime security threats and regional instability. It is also engaged in a direct kinetic exchange with Israel.

Esmail Qaani: Esmail Qaani, commander of the Revolutionary Guards Quds Force, warned that the Houthis could choke off the Red Sea.

Iran: Iran>>>'s actions in the region, including support for proxies and attacks, were condemned by all parties in the joint statement. Its demands for an end to fighting in Lebanon>>> are linked to broader negotiations with the United States>>>.

Esmail Qaani: Esmail Qaani, head of Iran's Revolutionary Guards Quds Force, threatened to expand the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz to the Bab El Mandeb Strait, escalating concerns about global oil supply.

Iran: Allegedly pressed Houthis to close Bab-el-Mandeb; engaged in ongoing war with US; received ceasefire proposal from mediators.

Esmail Qaani: IRGC Quds Force commander who warned of Red Sea closure.