Strategic evaluation of Middle East conflicts, regional rivalries, energy security, Israel–Iran dynamics, and great power competition in West Asia.
From Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's 'Wagh Nakh' tactic to modern grey-zone operations: Maj Gen Asthana breaks down the new rules of engagement in the Indian Ocean on @AsthanaWrites.
The United States possesses the most formidable military machine in history, yet since 1945 it has repeatedly failed to convert battlefield dominance into durable political success. From Vietnam and Afghanistan to Iraq, Libya and now Iran, America has demonstrated an extraordinary capacity to start wars, destroy regimes and win tactical battles—but a remarkable inability to achieve sustainable strategic outcomes. This paper examines the recurring strategic failures that have transformed military victories into political setbacks.
“From a strategic perspective, the Strait of Hormuz is a geopolitical weapon that can affect the future balance of power, international markets, and the outcome of conflicts”
The Strait of Hormuz is no longer merely a maritime passage connecting the Persian Gulf with the Arabian Sea. It has evolved into the strategic fulcrum of global geopolitics — a narrow corridor where military power, energy security, economics, diplomacy, and great-power rivalry converge with dangerous intensity.
Strategic Imperative: Relying on foreign supply arrangements or promises of supply chain resilience carries severe geopolitical risks when transport routes face active disruption. True sovereignty demands indigenous physical buffers and direct demand-side interventions
The Iran–Israel–US conflict highlights a critical lesson in modern warfare: tactical military success does not guarantee strategic victory. Despite overwhelming airpower, the US–Israel coalition has struggled to achieve decisive political outcomes against Iran’s resilient, asymmetric defence model. By leveraging geography—especially the Strait of Hormuz—Iran has turned energy flows into a strategic weapon with global consequences. The conflict is accelerating a shift toward a multipolar world order while exposing vulnerabilities for energy-dependent nations like India. Ultimately, without a clear political end-state or exit strategy, even the most advanced military campaigns risk becoming long-term strategic setbacks.
As the U.S shifts from a total blockade to targeting Iranian ports, the Strait of Hormuz remains a powder keg. Maj Gen S.B. Asthana analyzes why geography is Iran's ultimate "Asymmetric Advantage" and what it means for India's energy security.