Hormuz disruption may ease in weeks, Morrison tells Tharoor

NEW DELHI:Senior parliamentarian Shashi Tharoor held an extensive discussion with former Australian prime minister Scott Morrison on the changing global order, focusing on the geopolitical implications of tensions involving Iran and the broader strategic dynamics of the Indo-Pacific at the NXT Conclave 2026.

“NEW DELHI:Senior parliamentarian Shashi Tharoor held an extensive discussion with former Australian prime minister Scott Morrison on the changing global order, focusing on the geopolitical implications of tensions involving Iran and the broader strategic dynamics of the Indo-Pacific at the NXT Conclave 2026”

The Sunday Guardian

During the discussion Morrison suggested the disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could be temporary and that markets may rebalance once hostilities subside.

The Sunday Guardian

The conversation examined the wider geopolitical impact of the conflict, particularly on global trade routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, a critical channel for a large portion of the world’s oil supply.

Morrison noted that tensions had caused volatility in oil markets but suggested that prices could stabilise once hostilities ease.

He added that the United States and Israel would likely seek to consolidate their strategic gains before moving toward a diplomatic phase.

Turning to the Indo-Pacific, Tharoor asked Morrison about the increasing relevance of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, or Quad.

Morrison, who helped elevate the grouping during his tenure, said it had emerged as an important platform for cooperation among major maritime democracies.

The Sunday Guardian

He explained that while the Quad supports initiatives such as vaccine distribution, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, its broader purpose is to promote regional stability and protect open sea lanes.

Morrison acknowledged that the grouping's work inevitably intersects with the growing influence of China across the Indo-Pacific.

According to Morrison, the Quad should continue focusing on practical cooperation in areas such as maritime security, critical minerals, emerging technologies and space collaboration.

Close coordination among its four members—Australia, India, the United States and Japan—remains essential for regional stability, he said.

During the discussion, Tharoor also raised concerns about the intensifying conflict involving Iran, which has seen days of drone strikes, missile attacks and aerial bombardments across parts of the Middle East.

“NEW DELHI:Senior parliamentarian Shashi Tharoor held an extensive discussion with former Australian prime minister Scott Morrison on the changing global order, focusing on the geopolitical implications of tensions involving Iran and the broader strategic dynamics of the Indo-Pacific at the NXT Conclave 2026”

The Sunday Guardian

He asked Morrison how he viewed the conflict’s trajectory and its possible implications for India, Australia and the broader international community.

Morrison said governments often have to adapt their priorities in response to unforeseen global developments.

He argued that Iran’s activities in the region over the years had contributed to instability, including threats to energy supplies and support for militant groups.

According to him, recent strikes carried out in connection with Israel were intended to weaken Iran’s ability to project power.

He added that the United States appears reluctant to enter another prolonged ground war and is instead relying on targeted airstrikes to reduce military capabilities.

Morrison noted that while some may consider regime change desirable, it should not be seen as the immediate benchmark for evaluating the success of the current operations.

Tharoor also recalled Australia's earlier trade tensions with China, noting that despite restrictions on exports such as barley, wine and seafood, Australia chose to hold its ground.

He said the country eventually diversified its export markets and managed the economic impact.

The Sunday Guardian

Looking ahead, Morrison expressed optimism about the strengthening partnership between India and Australia.

He said that during his time in office he worked closely with Narendra Modi to deepen cooperation in defence, trade, technology and security.

With shared democratic values and expanding collaboration in areas such as supply chains, space and strategic security, Morrison described the India-Australia partnership as an important pillar of stability in the Indo-Pacific.