Iranian Regime Preparing for Possible Renewed Conflict; Australia to Join UK-Led Hormuz Security Mission

13/05/2026

TEHRAN, May 13: Iran appears to be preparing for a possible renewed conflict with the United States and Israel while seeking guarantees against future attacks in any potential negotiations, according to the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War.

In a report released Tuesday, the think tank said Tehran signaled it would not engage in negotiations without what it described as credible deterrence measures, including demands linked to sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz.

The report also stated that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps appeared to be consolidating its influence within Iran’s leadership structure under Ahmad Vahidi and his close circle.

Meanwhile, Australia announced plans to join a France and UK-led maritime mission aimed at securing commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles said the mission would be “strictly defensive” and focused on safeguarding international trade routes in the region.

According to CBS, Australia will contribute an E-7A Wedgetail surveillance aircraft already deployed in the Middle East. Marles said the decision followed a meeting involving representatives from 40 countries and added that Australia stood ready to support the multinational operation once formally established.