Newswatch 16’s Emily Kress breaks down what could happen with leadership in Iran and the possible economic impact in the U.S.
EAST STROUDSBURG, Pa. — As students walk around the campus of East Stroudsburg University, their classes keep them up to date on current events like the conflict in Iran.
Dr. Samuel Quainoo, the chair of political science and economics department says he has been watching it closely. He says at this point in the conflict, Iran is at its weakest point both politically and economically.
“Their main leader is dead, most of the key leaders were also killed, so if a regime change is wanted, probably this should not take that long, but it is complicated,” said Dr. Quainoo.
He says as tensions rise with increased air strikes, Israel will put a target on the back of the next Iranian leader. According to reports, the son of Ayatollah Khamenei might be next in line.
“If he becomes the leader, it’s going to be difficult to see if there is going to be a regime change in place because he was very much aligned with his father’s positions,” explained Dr. Quainoo.
Political science experts at ESU say the longer the conflict lasts, the greater economic impact we could feel here at home.
“The global markets and global economy is affected by this; it is going to affect the U.S. economy, so there might be some more serious consequences,” said Dr. Quainoo
Dr. Quainoo explains it’s unclear just how long this conflict will last. But the United States is already seeing increased oil and gas prices, which means the price of goods like groceries could be next.