Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that the global consequences of the ongoing Gulf conflict could be unpredictable and potentially as disruptive as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking at a congress of leading industrialists in Russia, Vladimir Putin said the escalation triggered by joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran has already begun to destabilise global systems, affecting multiple sectors worldwide.
‘Consequences difficult to predict’
“It’s still hard to predict the consequences of the conflict in the Middle East with any confidence,” Vladimir Putin said, according to reports. He added that even those directly involved in the conflict may not fully understand its long-term implications.
The remarks highlight growing global concern over the widening impact of the conflict, which has expanded beyond regional boundaries.
Disruption across global sectors
Vladimir Putin noted that the conflict is already affecting key global sectors, including logistics, manufacturing, and supply chains.
Industries linked to hydrocarbons, metals, and fertilisers have reportedly taken a direct hit, raising fears of broader economic consequences. The Russian leader emphasised that the ripple effects are being felt across continents.
Drawing a parallel with the COVID-19 pandemic, he recalled how global development slowed significantly during that period, suggesting a similar scenario could unfold if the conflict intensifies.
Strait of Hormuz disruption raises alarm
A major concern highlighted by analysts is the disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy corridor connecting the Persian Gulf to the Indian Ocean.
The route, through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes, has reportedly been affected, halting the movement of numerous vessels, including oil tankers and cargo ships.
This disruption has heightened fears of a prolonged global economic shock, particularly for energy-dependent economies.
Rising geopolitical tensions
The conflict, which began with joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran in late February, has since spread across the Gulf region, increasing geopolitical tensions.
In a related development, Russian state media has also suggested that the situation could escalate further. A presenter on Channel One reportedly remarked that the world might be witnessing the early stages of a larger global confrontation, drawing parallels with past wars that were only fully understood in hindsight.
Call for preparedness
Vladimir Putin stressed the need for Russia to prepare for prolonged uncertainty, urging resilience and unity in the face of evolving global challenges.
He emphasised that the scale of uncertainty remains unprecedented and that governments must adapt to rapidly changing geopolitical and economic realities.
Conclusion
The warning by Vladimir Putin underscores growing global anxiety over the far-reaching consequences of the Gulf conflict. With disruptions already visible in critical sectors and energy routes, the situation continues to pose significant risks to the global economy and stability.