Why war on Iran is not Trump’s to end: Israel may ‘fan the flames’
Experts warn Israel could 'fan the flames' of conflict, complicating US efforts to end fighting.
Chinese geopolitical analysts, cited in a South China Morning Post report, have assessed that the ongoing US-Israeli military campaign against Iran may prove difficult to de-escalate in the near term. They specifically warn that Israel is likely to continue actions that 'fan the flames' of the conflict, potentially undermining any diplomatic signals from US leadership aimed at winding down hostilities. The conflict, triggered by joint airstrikes on February 28th that killed Iran's former supreme leader, has now lasted 12 days, matching the duration of a previous major flare-up in June.
The fighting has escalated regionally, with Iran launching retaliatory strikes against US military assets in neighboring countries, reportedly hitting some civilian facilities. Casualty figures reported by Tehran cite over 1,300 civilian deaths, while Washington has confirmed approximately 140 US troops injured and seven service members killed. Despite the volatility and high tensions disrupting the critical Strait of Hormuz, the analysts believe the intense back-and-forth attacks are unlikely to become a permanent state. They also explicitly reject the geopolitical narrative that a protracted US entanglement in the Middle East would strategically benefit Beijing.
- Analysts warn Israel's actions may 'fan the flames,' complicating short-term conflict resolution despite US signals.
- The 12-day conflict has caused significant casualties: over 1,300 reported civilian deaths in Iran and 140+ injured US troops.
- Experts dismiss the idea that a prolonged US-Middle East war would be advantageous for China's strategic position.
Why It Matters
Highlights escalating geopolitical risks, potential for prolonged regional instability, and complex great-power dynamics.