Tensions in the Middle East are escalating sharply following U.S.–Israeli strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliation. South Africa’s President, Cyril Ramaphosa, has condemned violations of international law and rejected the doctrine of anticipatory self-defence. Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned the region risks sliding into wider war. So — are we witnessing another regional flare-up, or a deeper fracture in the global order? Tsepiso Makwetla spoke to Nader Hashemi, a Professor in the International Studies department at Georgetown University