So far, the most visible result of the first week of war has not been political change but economic disruption. Energy markets are unstable, tourism is declining, and global aviation and business are facing uncertainty. Inflation in the United States has risen to 7.1% in 2026, while global oil prices fluctuate above $100 per barrel, intensifying economic anxiety. Public opinion in the U.S. reflects growing concern: a recent CNN poll shows that 59% of Americans oppose military escalation, while only 41% support the current approach.
If the crisis escalates further, the strategic Strait of Hormuz could become a flashpoint, threatening global oil supply and worsening inflation worldwide.
History shows that wars often expand beyond their original goals. As political scientist Robert A. Pape explains, military campaigns tend to widen as leaders attempt to demonstrate resolve. The Vietnam War followed a similar pattern when bombing campaigns failed to achieve quick results.
If more countries join the conflict openly, what began as a limited confrontation could grow into a much wider and more dangerous global crisis. Many analysts and political thinkers warn that the world may be moving toward a new global conflict divided into major blocks. In such a scenario, the famous warning by Albert Einstein becomes deeply relevant: “I know not with what weapons World War III will be fought, but World War IV will be fought with sticks and stones.”
The decisions made in the coming weeks will not only shape the future of Iran, the Middle East, and the United States, but also determine whether the world follows the path of diplomacy—or slides into unprecedented global chaos.
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