Iran Could Be Next After Venezuela, Warns Economist Jeffrey Sachs on Trump’s Threats

Renowned American economist Jeffrey Sachs has issued a stark warning over escalating global tensions, cautioning that Iran could become the next major flashpoint following recent developments involving Venezuela. Describing the current trajectory of US foreign policy as deeply destabilising, Sachs warned that any military confrontation with Iran would be far more explosive than previous conflicts and could have global consequences.

Speaking after addressing the United Nations Security Council on Venezuela, Sachs dismissed the idea of a “rules-based international order,” arguing that it exists largely in rhetoric rather than reality. According to him, American foreign policy has for decades been driven by a powerful military and security establishment that frequently bypasses constitutional limits, relying instead on regime change strategies, economic pressure, covert operations, and military threats.

Sachs pointed to Venezuela as a long-standing target of such policies, noting that efforts to undermine its government have continued for more than two decades. These attempts, he argued, were motivated by ideological opposition to left-leaning governments and by strategic interests linked to natural resources, particularly oil. Despite sanctions, political pressure, and direct intervention attempts, Sachs said most regime change efforts fail, often leaving countries destabilised rather than compliant.

Turning his focus to the Middle East, Sachs expressed deep concern over rising rhetoric directed at Iran. He warned that the situation involving Tehran could spiral rapidly, especially given the country’s strategic location, military capabilities, and regional influence. Unlike Venezuela, Iran is surrounded by major global powers and possesses advanced missile technology, making any confrontation potentially catastrophic.

Sachs also highlighted recent high-level political interactions that he said signal a hardening stance toward Iran. He suggested that threats against Tehran are being framed using familiar narratives, including human rights concerns, which have historically preceded foreign interventions. Such approaches, he warned, risk igniting a broader conflict involving multiple nations.

According to Sachs, Iran’s leadership under Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is unlikely to capitulate under pressure, increasing the likelihood of prolonged instability if hostilities escalate. He further cautioned that Israel’s hostility toward Iran, combined with the United States’ military backing, adds another layer of volatility to an already fragile region.

The economist also criticised the muted response from much of the international community, arguing that many nations remain silent out of fear of becoming future targets themselves. He described parts of Europe as politically constrained, citing their reluctance to challenge Washington despite actions that, he claimed, violate international law.

Sachs urged emerging economies and multilateral groupings to take a more assertive stance in defence of global norms. He called on countries such as India and China, along with the broader BRICS grouping, to uphold the principles of the United Nations Charter and resist what he characterised as unilateral and imperialistic behaviour.

Warning that global stability is at stake, Sachs stressed that a conflict involving Iran would not remain localised. With nuclear-armed states, advanced weaponry, and overlapping alliances in play, he described the scenario as a “recipe for disaster” that could plunge the world into a far-reaching crisis.

As rhetoric intensifies and geopolitical fault lines deepen, Sachs’ remarks serve as a cautionary note on the risks of unchecked power, urging world leaders to prioritise diplomacy over confrontation before tensions reach an irreversible tipping point.