Chongqing - In recent days, joint military strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran have rapidly escalated into a localized war. Iran’s retaliation has increased pressure on both Washington and Gulf states, raising concerns about the conflict’s wider implications. 

In this episode of Global Vision, Gong Jiong, Specially Invited Expert of the China Forum at the Center for International Security and Strategy at Tsinghua University, who previously worked in Israel for a short period, analyzes the strategic background of the military action and its possible regional and global consequences.

According to Gong, the objective of “regime change” in Iran is unrealistic and unlikely to happen. Recent statements from the U.S. officials suggest that Washington has already adjusted its goal, shifting the focus toward weakening Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities. Yet the fundamental question remains: where exactly do America’s national interests lie in this conflict?

Gong also emphasized the importance of protecting global energy security. He proposed a “three Nos” principle: no attacks on oil tankers, no attacks on oil-related facilities, and no closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Such actions, he argued, would have consequences far beyond the region and could destabilize the global economy.

For major oil-importing countries such as China, Japan and South Korea, maintaining stable energy supply routes is critical. Gong suggested these countries could advocate mechanisms to deter attacks on key energy infrastructure. While China may have limited direct influence on the conflict, he said it can still work with other major economies to help reduce tensions and prevent further escalation.