Military action against Iran could weaken the United States in a potential conflict with China, 19FortyFive writes.

The publication notes that if the war lasts longer than even the most optimistic expectations of Donald Trump, the operation could ultimately produce serious strategic consequences for Washington. According to the author, even if the United States achieves a military victory, the campaign may contribute to a major strategic setback against China.

The article argues that fighting Iran would drain key American defense systems and weapons that are intended for operations within the area of responsibility of the US Indo-Pacific Command.

The commentator also warns that the American military-industrial complex would struggle to quickly replace the weapons redirected to the war with Iran.

Earlier, the German newspaper Handelsblatt, citing sources in military circles, reported that US and Israeli strikes on Iran have already led to a shortage of missiles for Patriot air defense systems. According to the report, the conflict in the Middle East has forced the United States and Persian Gulf states to expend a massive number of interceptor missiles.

On Saturday, the United States and Israel launched a large-scale military operation against the Islamic Republic of Iran. Israeli officials said the strikes were aimed at preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. US President Donald Trump stated that Washington intends to destroy Iran’s naval forces and defense industry and called on the country’s citizens to overthrow the government.