Mon Jan 05 02:15:20 UTC 2026: ## US Abduction of Maduro Seen as Escalation, Experts Warn of Increased Risk of Conflict with Iran

Washington, D.C. – The United States’ recent abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is being viewed by some analysts as a significant escalation that could embolden hardliners and pave the way for a military confrontation with Iran. The move, which comes on the heels of escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran, has sparked international condemnation and raised concerns about the future of diplomacy in the region.

Following the news of Maduro’s removal, Israeli politician Yair Lapid issued a stark warning to Tehran, suggesting the regime should take note of the events in Venezuela. Experts warn that the US action, while seemingly isolated to Venezuela, could embolden those pushing for a renewed war with Iran.

“A new lawlessness makes everything less stable and war more likely,” stated Jamal Abdi, president of the National Iranian American Council (NIAC). He cautioned that Maduro’s removal could prompt Iran to take actions that trigger military intervention, such as developing a military deterrent or preemptively striking US or Israeli assets.

Negar Mortazavi, a senior fellow at the Center for International Policy, echoed these concerns, arguing that the US actions in Venezuela demonstrate a maximalist approach that leaves little room for diplomatic solutions. “What I see and hear from Tehran is that they are not interested in negotiating with the Trump administration… So, not much chance for diplomacy at the moment, which then opens the path to the opposite road, that is conflict,” Mortazavi told Al Jazeera.

The US has accused Maduro of leading a drug organization and has increasingly cited access to Venezuela’s vast oil reserves as a motivating factor for its actions. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has also amplified alleged, unsubstantiated ties between Maduro and Iran, claiming Venezuela provides a foothold for Hezbollah in the Western Hemisphere.

Iran has condemned the US action, calling on the United Nations to intervene. Iranian officials view the US aggression as a breach of international peace and security, warning of its destabilizing consequences.

Adding fuel to the fire, President Trump has issued renewed threats against Iran, vowing to “hit very hard” if the Iranian government cracks down on protesters. Some critics believe that regime change in Iran is a primary objective, a goal that the US may now be pursuing more aggressively.

While the possibility of a direct US military operation in Iran remains uncertain, analysts warn that the abduction of Maduro has significant implications. Some argue that control over Venezuelan oil supplies could potentially offset energy market disruptions resulting from a conflict with Iran. However, the success of such a strategy hinges on a successful US takeover in Venezuela.

The situation remains volatile, and the international community is closely watching the unfolding events in both Venezuela and Iran, fearing a potential escalation towards a wider conflict.

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