‘The ME conflict’

This is apropos to letters to the Editor titled “The ME conflict” carried by the newspaper in recent days.

When the hierarchy of impact is assessed, a stark picture emerges. Iran, in terms of physical destruction and economic damage, ranks among the most affected. The United States follows closely, bearing immense financial costs and suffering a decline in global standing. The Gulf States, once pillars of regional stability, are experiencing severe economic and security disruptions. The broader international community is grappling with energy shortages and economic contraction. At the very bottom of this hierarchy — least affected, yet most strategically advantaged — stands Israel.

This reality demands a fundamental reassessment of strategy, particularly in Washington. The United States must confront a difficult truth: it is investing enormous resources in a conflict that is yielding limited direct benefits while enabling another actor to achieve its long-term objectives.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026