The closure of the Strait of Hormuz showed how quickly a regional conflict can throw global energy markets into chaos. By pushing governments toward coal and biofuels, the war could accelerate deforestation and undermine climate negotiations, with environmental consequences that will linger long after the fighting ends.
As great power rivalry intensifies in the Pacific, stronger regional cooperation could help small island states protect their sovereignty and avoid becoming dependent on larger powers.
The downlisting of recovering species can put conservation gains at risk when funding systems shift resources to species facing higher extinction risks.