The article questions whether the conflict with Iran could allow China to diminish American influence in strategically vital Southeast Asian markets. It compares this potential erosion of US power to historical declines experienced by other global powers.

Since America launched its “major combat operation” against Iran, several Nato allies have distanced themselves from Washington. Now America also risks losing ground in strategically important Southeast Asia to China. Could it face an erosion of influence similar to that suffered by Russia in Central Asia as a result of its “special military operation” in Ukraine? Soon after US President Donald Trump launched massive air and missile strikes on Iran on February 28, it became clear Washington...