JOHANNESBURG - International relations expert Kingsley Makhubela says Iran's response to the escalating conflict with the United States signals a shift in the global balance of power.
Makhubela argues that no single nation can dominate international affairs as it once did.
His comments come amid rising tensions between Washington and Tehran, after Iran launched missiles and drones at several Gulf states hosting US military bases and closed the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
Makhubela says Iran's actions demonstrate that the world has entered a multipolar era, where military strength alone is no longer enough to dictate outcomes.
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He says Tehran has made it clear that it will no longer accept one-sided negotiations and is instead demanding a more balanced approach.
According to Makhubela, the balance of power is increasingly tilting in Iran's favour, and he believes the United States is unlikely to achieve a decisive victory in the conflict.
He warns that a prolonged confrontation could have severe consequences for the global economy.
With oil prices continuing to rise, Makhubela says the risk of a global recession is growing, noting previous International Monetary Fund warnings that oil prices exceeding 200 dollars a barrel could trigger a worldwide economic down-turn.
He says mounting international economic pressure will likely force all parties to seek a negotiated solution to the conflict.