The world war that wasn’t

Fears of another world war have been greatly exaggerated. Far from creating another global cataclysm, recent U.S. actions may have prevented a major war while simultaneously providing a new blueprint for American military power in the Middle East and beyond.

The United States carried out targeted strikes against Iran’s nuclear weapons program, prompting some commentators to warn of a global cataclysm. Previously, well-known podcasters, policymakers, and even some major news outlets suggested that a world war, potentially involving Iranian allies Russia and China, would ensue should Washington and Tehran come to blows.