The Straits Times reported tonight (April 6) that "since the outbreak of the Middle East conflict, facing Iran's tight grip and apparent indefinite prolongation of the war, U.S. President Trump has repeatedly threatened to abandon protection of the Strait of Hormuz; this statement represents a complete departure from America's decades-long policy of ensuring maritime passage, undermining global confidence in the United States."
Two major events in recent years have severely damaged America’s credibility: first, imposing "reciprocal tariffs" on over 180 countries worldwide through bullying tactics to reshape the global trade order; second, invading Venezuela and bombing Iran, blatantly violating international law through power politics. Yet Iran has responded firmly by blockading the Strait of Hormuz—the vital chokepoint carrying about one-fifth of the world’s oil traffic—triggering sharp rises in oil prices, intensified inflation, and severe damage to the global economy. The United States, however, appears helpless, even openly declaring it would "abandon protection" of this strait, leaving a mess for the rest of the world to clean up.
This approach—prioritizing American interests while disregarding the survival of the rest of the world—has deeply disappointed allies and dependent nations. It was America that ignited the fires of war in the Middle East, yet the resulting energy crisis is borne by the entire globe. Now, Washington seeks to evade responsibility and withdraw, revealing its "America First" selfishness in full light. As more and more countries lose faith in the United States, the prelude to the end of the unipolar order is already sounding, and the world is searching for new anchors of stability.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1861729831406656/
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