The Iran war is worsening the US energy problem and threatening its AI infrastructure. China, by contrast, is using its robust energy base to secure decisive advantages in the global AI race.
By Björn Ognibeni
The US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is hitting China especially hard as the largest buyer of Iranian crude oil. The supply gap is forcing Beijing to recalibrate its energy imports. That could even push it toward cooperation with the Trump administration.
By Manuel Liu
The US and Iran have failed to reach an agreement. A former Pakistani general points to Iran’s resilience and the fundamental disconnect between the two sides.
By Shams Ul Haq
Europe is underestimating a strategic shift in modern warfare: the intentional targeting of critical infrastructure. Russia has targeted Ukrainian civilian and critical infrastructure for years, but such energy systems have become central in the Iran War. Energy infrastructure is a particular focus: Strikes on gas and oil facilities illustrate how quickly economies can be destabilized by disrupting power grids, industrial production, and civilian supply. The resilience of critical infrastructure must move to the center of Germany’s and Europe’s defense and security agenda.
By Nina Locher and Loyle Campbell
The wars in Iran and Ukraine have shown that NATO countries still face critical gaps when it comes to drones, low-cost air defense systems and long-range strike capabilities. At the same time, the conflict in the Gulf also reveals where manned systems retain advantages over unmanned ones.
By Viktor Funk
US media are reporting conflicting accounts about possible Chinese arms deliveries to Iran. Some say shipments have already taken place, while others describe deliveries still being planned via third countries. China denies the reports.
By Manuel Liu
More time, less immediate pressure, and sensitive differences kept out of the spotlight for now: From China’s perspective, the postponement of the summit with Donald Trump improves the conditions for negotiation.
By Jörn Petring
Following the ceasefire between the US and Iran, Israel carried out the largest airstrike in Lebanon since the start of the war. Now, Netanyahu is showing himself to be open to negotiations.
By Laura Hülsemann
The energy crisis is laying bare the wide divergence in energy strategies across the European Union. Instead of fostering an honest debate about structural problems, the discussion is increasingly shaped by political concessions that offer no lasting solution, writes the director of the think tank Strategic Perspectives.
By Linda Kalcher
The war being waged by the US and Israel against Iran has already begun to reshape the regional order.
By Shams Ul Haq
