The recent strikes between Israel and Iran highlighted a shift in the Middle East order and the outlines of the new order have become clear.
The longer Israel remains at war with Hamas in Gaza, the less flexible the country will be in meeting additional security threats.
With attacks against U.S. interests and military installations in the Middle East, decisive leadership is needed to mitigate threats.
Due to Iran’s relationship with Russia and China, Tehran may gamble and demonstrate that it cannot be ignored in the Middle East.
International shipping can be disrupted by targeting choke points along shipping routes such as the Red Sea and other areas.
Emerging regional blocs will continue to look for alternative options for economic and security cooperation.
Over time, Hezbollah has been adroit at reinterpreting its rationale and use of violent resistance according to changing circumstances.
The potential for an expanded conflict in the Middle East doesn’t have to be constrained to Israel, and the U.S. is preparing for that.