Iran War Becomes Headache for Trump, Support Weakens, NATO Reluctant

Washington: The US-Israeli war with Iran in the Middle East has now completely blocked the world's most important oil vein – the Strait of Hormuz. About 20% of the world's oil and LNG travels through here every day, but now the movement of ships has almost stopped. Iran has stepped up attacks on US and its allies' ships, causing tanker owners to pause in fear. The International Energy Agency (IEA) is calling it the largest energy supply disruption in history – a shortfall of 8 million barrels per day in March alone.

What has been the impact on America's economy?

Brent crude has gone from 100 to 106 dollar a barrel, and some reports are talking as high as $120. The average price of gasoline in the US has climbed from 3.50 dollar to 3.79 dollar per gallon – an increase of 50-80 cents since late February. Due to this, inflation is flaring up again and the burden on the common man's pocket is increasing. Economists are saying that if this crisis continues for a long time, economic growth may slow down and the Federal Reserve may postpone the decision to reduce interest rates. The Trump administration was earlier claiming to have brought inflation under control, but now this is a new shock.

Why has this crisis become a challenge for Trump?

This is a political fire for President Donald Trump. Inflation is always an election issue, and midterm elections are around the corner. Due to rising oil prices, gas, diesel, fertilizers have all become expensive – this is angering the common American. Trump said that America is benefiting because it is an oil producer itself, but in reality the public is angry due to rising prices at the gas pump. Trump has expressed anger at NATO and allies for not helping in opening Hormuz, showing that the lack of international unity is also a headache for him.

Is the impact visible at the global level?

It didn't just stop at America. The energy crisis has deepened in Asia and Europe – widespread power cuts, fuel shortages, and skyrocketing prices. Countries like Japan, China, and India, which depend on oil from the Gulf are the most affected. Gas and electricity prices are also rising in Europe. The IEA plans a record 400 million barrel strategic reserve release, but experts say it won't fully cover the shortfall. Supply chains are deteriorating, trade is being affected – the risk of food shortage has increased in poor countries.

Are America and its allies able to handle this situation?

Trump has taken military and strategic steps – ordered the Navy to escort him to Hormuz, provided political risk insurance. But the allies are holding back—Japan and Australia refused to send ships. Trump took a jibe at NATO for not helping. Iran has said the strait is closed to the US and its allies but is allowing ships from countries like China to pass. This shows that lack of unity at the international level is a big challenge for America.

Could the situation get worse?

Experts say that if Hormuz remains closed for a long time, it will not be just an oil crisis – there could be a global economic recession. There could be a loss of 330 billion to 2.2 trillion dollars in GDP, with inflation rising to 2.5%. There is a risk of stagflation – growth will stop but prices will keep rising. Further attacks by Iran or a full-scale operation by the US could worsen the situation.