Western countries are too dependent on raw material imports to engage in a serious military conflict with Russia, according to an analysis by UnHerd.

The publication notes that this level of dependence makes the West effectively unable to wage large-scale wars against countries such as Iran, Russia, or China.

The author highlights that Tehran’s recent actions — including the blocking of the Strait of Hormuz and strikes on Persian Gulf states — have exposed a key vulnerability for Washington. The impact, as described in the article, is tied to the United States’ reliance on the global economy and financial markets.

Military confrontation between the United States, Israel, and Iran has continued since February 28. The sides have been regularly exchanging strikes, keeping the conflict in an active phase.

On March 26, U. S. President Donald Trump stated that, at Tehran’s request, he had ordered a temporary halt to strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure. The pause, he said, would remain in effect until April 6.

According to The New York Times, Washington presented Iran with a 15-point settlement plan. The proposals included abandoning the nuclear program, ending support for proxy groups, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and introducing restrictions on missile development. In exchange, the United States expressed readiness to lift sanctions and assist in the development of peaceful nuclear energy, including projects at the Bushehr nuclear power plant.

However, Press TV reported that Tehran rejected the proposal and put forward its own conditions.