Professor Xueqin Jiang has issued a stark warning about a potential conflict between the United States and Iran. According to Jiang, such a war could become a “20-year trap,” where the U.S. faces a long and exhausting struggle rather than a quick victory. He argues that Iran has spent decades preparing for asymmetric warfare, relying on drones, missiles, and decentralized forces designed to challenge larger, technologically advanced militaries.
Jiang also warns the conflict could have major global consequences, especially if instability reaches the Strait of Hormuz, through which a large share of the world’s oil supply passes. Disruptions there could drive energy prices higher and trigger economic shocks worldwide. While the prediction remains speculative, analysts say it reflects growing concerns that modern wars may be decided less by raw power and more by endurance, economics, and long-term strategy.