An escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict, with direct U.S. involvement, could lead to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, severely disrupting the global economy, warned Brussels-based political analyst Elijah Magnier on Tuesday.
The aerial conflict, sparked by Israel's surprise airstrikes across Iran on June 13, has killed at least 244 people in Iran and 24 in Israel, according to official figures.
Magnier emphasized that Israel's capability to continue a prolonged offensive depends on its support from U.S.
"Because Israel received the money from the United States, it has all the support from the military and economy. And the United States is giving Israel enough weapons to continue the war. If the United States stop that, then Israel cannot wage war," he said.
Since the outbreak of the conflict, analysts have raised concerns about Iran's capability to block the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important oil chokepoints. Such a move could have a devastating effect on the world's supply of the critical commodity.
"It is indeed the most dangerous time for the Middle East because in case of the participation of the Unties States directly -- because it is participating indirectly -- then Iran will close the Strait of Hormuz. Therefore, the world economy will be disturbed and suffer dearly. Everything will stop and people will panic. Then this is going to create a world-wide crisis -- economic crisis," said Magnier.
Direct US involvement in Israel-Iran conflict could upend global economy: expert
