Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleLeon Panetta, a former CIA director, warned that the conflict with Iran, initially expected to be brief, is likely to continue for months due to unresolved crucial issues. Panetta stated that Iran holds significant leverage over the Strait of Hormuz, effectively having “a gun to our head” by controlling a vital global oil shipping route. He questioned the effectiveness of further US airstrikes or deploying ground troops, suggesting military action would not significantly alter the regime or provide a key to leverage. Panetta emphasised the need for a negotiating mechanism to address the Strait of Hormuz and the nuclear issue, proposing an allied coalition to guarantee free movement through the Strait. He criticised President Donald Trump's negotiators for their lack of diplomatic experience and expressed concern about a lack of trust between the US and Iran, fearing future conflict if allies are alienated. In fullIran regime has ‘gun to our head’ over Strait of Hormuz, says former CIA bossThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in