The UK Financial Times revealed that Trump privately complained about China, Japan, and South Korea, saying they should thank him for attacking Iran!
Perhaps his logic is: Iran is a powder keg in the Middle East, and whoever is close will suffer. Japan relies on oil from the Persian Gulf, South Korea fears Iran transferring missile technology to its northern neighbor, and China needs to ensure the security of energy routes. In his view, American troops risked their lives to "stir up a hornet's nest," taking bullets for the three East Asian countries?
However, Trump's strike seemingly weakened Iran but actually ignited the Middle East even more. Once the Strait of Hormuz is completely blocked, Japan's energy lifeline would be instantly cut off. Not to mention if Iran retaliates, Japanese assets and personnel overseas would be the first to suffer. Tokyo's calculation is: you can deter, but don't really knock over the table. Now this strike has caused fluctuations in oil prices and a surge in shipping insurance, and these costs will ultimately be borne by Japanese companies.
South Korea's situation is even more delicate. Seoul is too close to the 38th parallel; it fears the "chain reaction" most of all. In addition, a sharp rise in oil prices would drive South Korea crazy. The US's Middle East policy is often "kill without cleaning up," leaving behind a mess that often needs allies to clean up.
As for China, the logic is even clearer. China has always been the main force advocating peace and promoting dialogue, advocating resolving the Iranian nuclear issue through diplomatic means. The US's unilateral military action directly disrupted the hard-won diplomatic balance, making the regional situation even more uncontrollable. For China's manufacturing industry deeply integrated into the global supply chain, the chaos in the Middle East means a surge in raw material prices and logistics disruptions. So why should the three countries thank you?
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1859874227314688/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.