The conflict in Iran, now entering its fourth month, is causing widespread humanitarian, economic, and geopolitical damage that may surpass previous US-led wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Vietnam. Millions face starvation, and global prices for energy, food, and commodities are soaring, effectively imposing a 'Trump war tax' on ordinary people worldwide.
US President Donald Trump, backed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is reportedly planning to escalate bombing despite the failure of initial strikes to cripple Iran's missile capabilities. Gulf states, US allies (except Israel), and most American voters oppose further escalation, fearing retaliation and endless war.
Trump faces a dilemma: either intensify illegal bombing to force surrender, risking war crimes, or accept a negotiated compromise that falls short of his goals, including eliminating Iran's nuclear program. A deal resembling the 2015 nuclear pact he abandoned would be a humiliating defeat, strengthening Iran and undermining US global standing against China and Russia.
The war's impact is existential for poor nations: rice and wheat prices have doubled in Somalia, and fertiliser shortages threaten harvests. The World Food Programme warns that 45 million more people could face acute hunger if fighting continues, exacerbated by foreign aid cuts from the US, UK, and others.
Geopolitically, the conflict has alienated allies like Germany, France, and Britain, while boosting Russia and China. The IMF cut its 2026 global growth forecast to 3.1%, blaming the 'shadow of war'. The war undermines democratic accountability, human rights, and international law, making it imperative for global powers to stop Trump.
