The war in Iran is not just another regional conflict. It marks the beginning of a new reality with global consequences, one that is reshaping the balance of power and testing the resilience of economies and societies alike. The great misconception of these days is that many still continue to look for the end of the war. In reality, even when the guns fall silent, its consequences will continue to shape the world for years to come.
The first and most immediate consequence concerns energy. The disruption of flows from the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz is constraining the supply of oil and natural gas and driving prices sharply higher, turning energy security into a central geopolitical issue. The second is economic: inflation, rising production and transportation costs, slower growth, and mounting pressure on public finances. The third concerns international trade and supply chains, which are entering a period of heightened uncertainty and increased costs.
The fourth impact is geopolitical. New balances are emerging, alliances are being redefined, and energy is once again becoming an instrument of power and influence. The fifth is social and political, as rising prices and energy pressure deepen social imbalances and test political stability. The sixth concerns food security, since the increase in the cost of fuel and fertilizers directly affects agricultural production and food prices.
Asia is experiencing the shock first, due to its heavy dependence on the Middle East, with governments taking emergency measures to curb consumption and ensure adequate supply. However, the crisis is already spreading to Europe, which is now facing a new wave of pressure. At a time of fragile recovery, rising energy costs threaten industry, transport, and the agri-food chain, while inflation is re-emerging as the dominant threat.
For Greece, the consequences will be immediate and multidimensional. The economy will be burdened by higher energy costs, Greek agricultural production will come under pressure from more expensive fuel and fertilizers, while tourism will be affected by higher transportation costs and the reduced spending capacity of visitors. At the same time, political pressure for immediate and effective solutions will intensify.
In the face of this new reality, Greece must first and foremost ensure national consensus. Energy policy cannot remain a field of political confrontation; it must become a shared national plan, marked by continuity and strategic consistency. At the same time, the country must accelerate its drive toward energy autonomy through renewable energy sources, investment in storage, and the strengthening of infrastructure. Supporting agricultural production and safeguarding tourism are critical priorities, while the country must also strengthen its role as an energy and geopolitical hub in the Eastern Mediterranean.
This crisis is not temporary. It is the new normal. And the response to it will depend on political responsibility, shared understanding, and seriousness.