Lagos, Nigeria – The first economic shockwaves from the US-Israel war on Iran have been felt through oil markets, shipping routes and financial uncertainty. But its longer-term consequences could extend far beyond the Middle East, reshaping energy markets, trade networks and geopolitical alignments worldwide.
Across Africa, governments are reassessing their energy security, defence partnerships and investment strategies as uncertainty grows over the future of global alliances and supply chains. For countries already grappling with conflict, debt pressures and fragile economies, the crisis presents new risks.
Analysts argue the disruption also presents an opportunity for African states to diversify sources of finance, strengthen regional institutions and pursue more balanced relationships with external powers. Iran's role in Africa is also being examined through the lens of these changing dynamics.
Sudan's civil war is increasingly shaped by external alliances and Red Sea rivalries. Researcher Leena Badri told Al Jazeera that the US-Israel war has deepened rivalry between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, leaving no hope for a diplomatic breakthrough.
The crisis has also exposed Africa's vulnerability to disruptions along major maritime routes. The Strait of Hormuz is a conduit for a significant share of global oil exports, while attacks in the Red Sea since 2023 have disrupted commercial shipping. African economies dependent on imported fuel and fertiliser face higher transport costs and supply uncertainties.
Analysts call for reforms: expanding refining capacities, improving logistics networks and reducing dependence on external energy markets. Nigeria's Dangote Refinery could alter this dynamic, but East and Southern Africa remain exposed.
Marie Camara of the Africa CEO Forum stressed that the crisis should be viewed not only as a disruption but as an opportunity for Africa to strengthen its position in the global economy. The key question is whether this momentum will continue once markets stabilise.
Source: www.aljazeera.com