Moscow Stalks the Persian Gulf

Publication Date: February 1984

Publisher: Heritage Foundation (Washington, D.C.)

Author(s): James A. Phillips

Research Area: Government

Keywords: Middle East

Type: Report

Coverage: Soviet Union Iran Iraq

Abstract:

The threat posed by the Soviet Union to the Persian Gulf region is greater than ever because of its improved power projection capabilities, the erosion of Northern Tier barriers to Soviet access to the region, and MOSCOW'S many opportunities to exploit local instability. The Soviet Union has encircled the Gulf with military strongholds and is biding its time for an opening in the center. Given the prevailing trends, the Soviets have little reason to rely on brute military force to kick open Gulf doors--these doors may be opened for them from the inside.