英文

Editorial : War brinkmanship a game too dangerous to play

【明報專訊】Tensions are mounting in the Middle East after Iran launched missiles at the bases of US troops in Iraq in retaliation for the death of its military commander Qassem Suleimani in a US air raid. As the US and Iran are edging towards military conflict, the next step by the US will be the key deciding the direction of future developments of the situation. If the two countries go to war, other countries are also likely to be drawn into the conflict. That will threaten regional security and deal a blow to the global economy. For US President Trump, who is seeking re-election, starting a war is also tantamount to taking a huge political gamble. The Middle East is now facing the grimmest situation since the Iraq War in 2003. Despite the US and Iran being at daggers drawn, the situation has not yet escalated to the point of no return. The two countries must avoid falling into the downward spiral of "attack and avenge" and "re-attack and re-avenge". There is still a chance of turning danger into safety if both sides may rein themselves in before reaching the edge of the cliff.

上 / 下一篇新聞