The escalation of hostilities between the United States, Israel and Iran in February 2026 represents one of the most significant geopolitical crises of the contemporary era. What began as targeted military operations has rapidly evolved into a wider regional confrontation with global repercussions. This article argues that the conflict is not merely a regional security issue, but a transformative event likely to reshape global energy markets, intensify geopolitical rivalries and deepen humanitarian crises.

The origins of the conflict are deeply rooted in tensions over Iran’s nuclear programme and its regional influence. For decades, the United States and Israel have perceived Iran’s nuclear ambitions as a direct threat to international security (Council on Foreign Relations, 2026). Simultaneously, Iran’s support for non-state actors such as Hezbollah and regional militias has heightened strategic competition across the Middle East. The February 2026 strikes and subsequent retaliatory actions have transformed these long-standing tensions into open warfare.

Strategically, the conflict extends beyond a trilateral confrontation. It has the potential to involve multiple regional actors, including Gulf states, while drawing in global powers indirectly. The Strait of Hormuz remains central to the crisis, as it serves as a critical route for global oil transportation. According to the International Energy Agency (2026), approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes through this corridor. Iran’s disruption of maritime activities in the strait has therefore triggered immediate and severe consequences for global energy........

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