The current conflict in West Asia shows all signs of a global conflict in the making. On one side, the United States, the world’s leading power, allied with Israel, a regional power of European origin. On the other side, Iran, supported by Iraq, Lebanon, and Yemen. Unlike 20th-century conflicts centered on Europe, we are witnessing a confrontation between a Western power and an expanding regional power. The conflict could quickly escalate. China, an emerging Asian power, may support Iran for economic and strategic reasons. Russia, as well as major European powers — the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy — could intervene. India could also become involved, extending the conflict into South Asia. These dynamics show that the conflict has already gone beyond its initial region and may involve actors from three continents. If these alliances materialize, we could be facing a real world war, different from those of the 20th century in terms of participants and geographic...