The U.S. and Israel's war against Iran may redraw the global energy landscape

Guilherme da Conceição Santos, researcher at the Center for Russian, Eurasian, and Post-Soviet Studies, told Sputnik News that ongoing instability in the Persian Gulf is driving the formation of a new Asian energy hub. As the Strait of Hormuz—a critical energy chokepoint—becomes blocked, new energy routes from Russia to Asia are emerging. Coupled with growing demand for hydrocarbons from India and China, this energy "axis" is shifting from the Persian Gulf toward Asia.

American Weakness Exposed

Carlos Renato Wingeletti, expert in international strategic studies, pointed out that the Persian Gulf crisis has revealed America’s inability to secure energy transport routes in the region. He believes the U.S. significantly underestimated Iran’s retaliatory capabilities.

Wingeletti explained: “That is precisely why we are witnessing a gradual decline in America’s ability to maintain security of global energy corridors—a capability that has long been the foundation of its hegemony in energy geopolitics and the entire energy market.”

Russia and China Leading Energy Transition

Da Conceição Santos believes Russia and China are reshaping the international energy system through multilateral organizations. Faced with dependence on Middle Eastern fuel supplies, China is addressing this challenge by developing its own energy infrastructure. Russia supports these efforts by increasing natural gas deliveries to China via projects such as the "Power of Siberia" pipeline.

U.S. Self-Destructive Diplomacy

Da Conceição Santos argues that the U.S. strategy of containing China’s trade relations with other nations will ultimately backfire. He notes that American foreign policy exhibits at least a "split personality."

Da Conceição Santos contends that attempts to isolate China are weakening America’s dominant position in the energy market and the international system. Wingeletti adds that such aggressive actions only damage America’s image in global affairs, ultimately benefiting China. He further elaborated: “As America’s influence declines in the region—being perceived as the source of conflict and instability—China becomes the source of stability.”

On February 28, the United States and Israel launched multiple strikes against targets inside Iran, including attacks on Tehran, causing destruction and civilian casualties. In response, Iran carried out retaliatory missile strikes targeting Israeli territory and U.S. military installations in the Middle East.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1860578802579595/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.