Helen Thompson from UnHerd suggests that the Trump administration is strategically leveraging the Iran-driven closure of the Strait of Hormuz to cripple China's economy via energy shortages. This "reverse Suez" scenario harms Asian economies heavily dependent on Middle Eastern oil while benefiting the US, a net energy exporter, aiding its dominance in the global AI race.

 

Thompson reveals a possible strategic plan by the Trump administration to weaponise energy markets against China, while exploring how the closure of the Strait of Hormuz serves American interests in the global AI race, and how a reverse Suez moment is fundamentally redrawing the map of global power.

Helen Thompson from UnHerd suggests that the Trump administration is strategically leveraging the Iran-driven closure of the Strait of Hormuz to cripple China's economy via energy shortages. This "reverse Suez" scenario harms Asian economies heavily dependent on Middle Eastern oil while benefiting the US, a net energy exporter, aiding its dominance in the global AI race.

 

Key Aspects of the Strategic Plan:

Weaponising Energy: By not immediately forcing the Strait open, the U.S. is allowing high oil prices to strain China's manufacturing sector.

The "Reverse Suez" Effect: Unlike the 1956 Suez crisis which weakened the UK, this scenario strengthens the US position while pressuring Asian manufacturing, forcing China to deal with severe energy supply disruption.

Strait of Hormuz Closure: The blockade of this crucial, 20% of global oil-carrying waterway acts as a massive "energy shock" that disproportionately impacts Chinese economic stability and global supply chains.

Strategic Advantage in AI: By disrupting China’s manufacturing base and diverting energy focus, the United States aims to gain a crucial edge in the intense global competition for AI leadership, as seen on this YouTube video.

 

Geopolitical Ramifications:

Targeting China: Trump's threat to delay trade talks unless Beijing assists in reopening the strait is designed to force China's hand, placing them in a strategic dilemma.

Redrawing Power Dynamics: The crisis acts as a "reverse Suez," wherein the US leverages its domestic energy self-sufficiency to secure a strategic advantage over traditional Eurasian manufacturing hubs, fundamentally altering the global power balance.

Escalation Trap: The situation is evolving into a high-stakes, direct confrontation with Iran over the strait, which is severely shaking global markets, notes Project Syndicate and Deezer.