“Proving”? You mean “providing”? (Overactive spell check?)
You make a good point though. Without protection of shipping, commerce will fall apart. Exactly what the disruptors want. China’s support of Iran is playing with fire (for China too).
Yes, “providing”.
Zeihan’s thesis is that US commitment to globalization has been declining for decades, under every administration. The supply chain issues caused by the COVID epidemic has accelerated it. Clearly demonstrating its fragility.
Many businesses are finding new suppliers closer to home.
We’re moving to a world more like the 19th century, where countries can depend upon trade only where it can protect its shipping itself.
The US will manage fairly well. We’re a net food and energy exporter. China is uniquely vulnerable.