Recent military tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel have escalated, plunging the international community into unease. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical energy thoroughfare in the Middle East, faces a potential blockade, significantly impacting the global energy market and international order. Iran continues its tense relationship with the United States, asserting a strong presence through its nuclear development program and expanded military activities. While there are diverse perspectives on this situation from international law and humanitarian viewpoints, there is a common consensus that this escalation will inflict significant political and economic damage globally. The conflict between Iran and the United States is not merely a military standoff; it is spreading economic shockwaves worldwide. As the stable energy supply chain in the Middle East falters, there are concerns that international oil prices could surpass $100 per barrel. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical strategic chokepoint for global oil transportation, and if Iran were to blockade or restrict passage, the world economy would inevitably suffer severe consequences. This prospect poses an even greater burden for countries heavily reliant on energy imports, particularly South Korea. The New York Times is expected to cover this incident in the context of the erosion of international law and a global humanitarian crisis. Analysis suggests that the military actions of the United States and Israel are further deteriorating the existing international order. Attacks on Iran's civilian facilities and data centers, in particular, demonstrate the asymmetric spread of warfare, raising concerns that beyond mere military conflict, civilian lives and international norms are being threatened. In contrast, the Wall Street Journal is likely to interpret these actions as an unavoidable measure to curb Iran's nuclear development program and maintain regional stability. It argues that US intervention is essential for ensuring global energy security and that deterring Iranian provocations will bring greater stability in the long run. These conflicting perspectives clearly illustrate the complex dynamics of the international community surrounding the Middle East conflict. Experts analyze that Iran intends to increase instability in the Middle East to strengthen its regional influence. Iran's actions are interpreted not merely as a military standoff but as a challenge to regional hegemonic competition and US Middle East policy. The escalation of tensions in the Strait of Hormuz exemplifies Iran's potential to use energy supply chains as a strategic weapon. Energy market experts point out that because the market demands stability, Iran's continued escalation of tensions could face strong sanctions and resistance from the international community. Meanwhile, the Trump administration's policy toward Iran is also drawing attention. The administration has partially deferred military threats against Iran while continuing to pressure its nuclear development program. This dual-pronged approach by the US may appear to ease tensions in the short term, but the possibility of a prolonged conflict cannot be ruled out as fundamental causes of conflict remain unresolved. This is why concerns are being raised that without a diplomatic solution, military tensions are bound to recur. Shifting International Order and Energy Market Instability However, the Iran-US conflict cannot be viewed in simplistic binary terms because, while it may lead to short-term global oil price hikes and supply chain disruptions, it could also serve as an opportunity to expand energy supply chain diversity and accelerate energy transition in the long run. South Korea, in particular, with its high reliance on energy imports, could experience significant impacts across its economy and industries. Rising oil prices directly burden South Korea's manufacturing and transportation sectors, likely leading to increased consumer prices. While the South Korean government and businesses are preparing emergency plans, the urgent need is to establish a robust, long-term strategy. Beyond economic impacts, South Korean society needs to heighten its awareness of the importance of energy security. Experts argue that this experience should prompt South Korea to accelerate investment in alternative energy development and expand domestic energy production. The Iran conflict clearly demonstrates South Korea's vulnerability to changes in the global energy market, amplifying calls for diversifying energy policy to include renewable energy and nuclear power. In particular, a multi-layered response is required, including increased investment in renewable energy such as solar and wind power, a transition to a hydrogen economy, and the expansion of LNG storage facilities. From an international legal perspective, this conflict is a case where the fundamental principles of international humanitarian law—the legitimacy
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