China backs Iran; Israel struggles; U.S. attack risks global conflict.

Nima Rostami Alkhorshid:

1. What is the significance of the Chinese ships entering the Persian Gulf?

2. How does Iran's military capability compare to Israel's in the current conflict?

3. What role do China and Russia play in supporting Iran amid rising tensions?

4. Is there a possibility of the U.S. launching a direct attack on Iran, and what could be the consequences?

5. How effective are Israel’s air defense systems against Iranian missile strikes?

Larry C. Johnson:

1. The presence of Chinese surveillance ships in the Persian Gulf likely aims to gather intelligence on Israeli and U.S. military activities, signaling China’s strategic interest in protecting its regional allies.

2. Iran has a larger and more diverse missile arsenal, while Israel struggles with limited defensive capabilities and resupply issues, making it increasingly vulnerable.

3. China and Russia support Iran economically and militarily, helping it resist Western pressure and reinforcing alternative global trade routes outside U.S. influence.

4. A U.S. attack on Iran could escalate into a broader regional or even global conflict, especially if Russia and China intervene, and may face strong domestic and international opposition.

5. Israeli air defenses are overwhelmed by the volume and accuracy of Iranian missiles, often requiring multiple interceptors per target, leading to rapid depletion of supplies.