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Energy, minerals, and trade are becoming tools of competition among major powers.

The Strait of Hormuz is an important global route for oil transportation.

When war affects the passage of ships, shipping costs and oil prices change, and factories and ordinary consumers in many countries are also affected.

When Middle Eastern oil supplies decrease, China increases its purchases of Russian oil to ensure energy security; Russia also gains more buyers as a result.

At the same time, China holds an important position in the processing and supply of key minerals such as rare earths.

Although these materials may not be very noticeable, they are essential for making cars, batteries, electronic products, and military equipment.

The United States is therefore developing domestic production, recycling old materials, and seeking new sources of supply.

The actions of the United States, China, and Russia are interconnected: when one country starts a war or imposes sanctions, another may change its purchasing, while a third country may gain new markets.

Modern international competition depends not only on armies, but also on energy, factories, transportation routes, trade, and raw materials.

Countries' economies are deeply connected, and any major power's decisions may affect the whole world.