American fighter aircraft and drones once again carried out strikes against Iranian targets near the Strait of Hormuz.

US President Donald Trump confirmed the operation on social media and warned that additional strikes could follow if Iran continues to retaliate amid escalating American military pressure.

What triggered the latest flare-up, and what are the two sides trying to achieve at this point?

DW put these and other questions to Behnam Ben Taleblu, Senior Iran Program Director at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies.