As U.S. forces move to secure the Strait of Hormuz amid the escalating war with Iran, some analysts say the conflict could deliver an unexpected strategic payoff: new leverage over China’s ability to wage war — including a potential invasion of Taiwan.

Though the administration hasn’t listed control of the strait as an objective, Foundation for Defense of Democracies President Cliff May told the Washington Examiner it could reshape the global balance of power beyond the Middle East.