Dickson C. Igwe. Photo: VINO/File

This writer begs to differ. These articles speak to context. The Virgin Islands sit in a much wider world governed today by a single US hegemon with a rising Asian hegemon at its heels. There is a threat of war in Asia that could disrupt life in this
island paradise in ways unimaginable presently.

What happens outside the borders of the Virgin Islands and the Caribbean affects the Virgin Islands directly. These articles are a call to appreciate context, the wider global macroeconomic influences on the Virgin Islands, and encourage residents
to adjust appropriately.

One example of how outside events suddenly affect life on the island is the June 2025 Israeli attack on Iran. The outcome of this new war is unknown at this time. There are, however, assumptions.

If the USA gets bogged down in the Middle East, that may offer China an opportunity to march into Taiwan, as China’s key adversary, the USA, may get bogged down in that Middle Eastern conflict, taking away its focus from Asia.

War in the Middle East could affect oil prices, leading to higher inflation. What is presently a major bushfire could conflagrate into a much wider war if Russia and China get involved.

War in Asia between China and the USA is a much more dangerous affair. It would disrupt major supply chains, creating shortages in everything from car parts and essential products to the machines and tools that drive modern existence. War in Asia will create waves that reach every corner of the globe.

One thing is clear: since the election of Donald Trump in November 2024, the world is a far more dangerous place. Trump came in as anti-war. However, when in power, world events can change the trajectory of any President. The record of US intervention in the Middle East has been one of failure in spite the trillions spent on wars in Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya. Marching into Iran could be an even greater catastrophe.