The global community is on edge following a major U.S. airstrike operation in Iran, dubbed Operation Midnight Hammer, led by former President Donald Trump. The operation targeted three key nuclear sites, reportedly causing extensive damage, though Iran denies this. In retaliation, Iran is seriously considering closing the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway that handles around 20% of the world’s oil and gas shipments. Its closure could destabilize global markets, drive up energy prices, and cause economic turmoil. Oil prices have already surged, and fears of a wider conflict loom. The U.S. has made an urgent appeal to China—one of the largest importers of Iranian oil—to pressure Tehran into keeping the strait open. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that closing the Strait would be “economic suicide” for Iran and detrimental to global economies.

Meanwhile, Trump has used the situation to call for leadership change in Iran, promoting a controversial slogan, “Make Iran Great Again,” despite other U.S. officials denying intentions of regime change. While Trump pushes a more aggressive stance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Vice President JD Vance maintain that the U.S. strikes were strictly about halting nuclear development, not sparking war. Iran’s parliament has approved plans to close the Strait, but the final decision lies with the Supreme National Security Council. The situation remains volatile, with nations worldwide bracing for potential escalation. As diplomatic channels narrow, China’s role may be pivotal in avoiding a catastrophic economic and geopolitical fallout.