Prominent leaders, including Jake Sullivan, Henry Kissinger, Trump, and Biden, have repeatedly stated that China is the US’s main geopolitical rival. However, current conflicts in the Middle East and other countries have dominated US foreign policy for the last 20 years. Because of this, China, its main geopolitical rival, has been able to increase its strength and influence worldwide.
The United States possessed the strategic means to offset China’s increasing influence when it began its military campaign in Afghanistan. However, the unexpected tragedy of 9/11 caused America to suddenly turn its attention to Afghanistan. Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that Saddam Hussein represented a nuclear threat and that his overthrow would stabilize the area, which prompted the focus to shift to Iraq. The United States became heavily involved in Middle Eastern conflicts as a result of these allegations. These actions continued over time, including the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia as well as events like the Arab Spring in Syria, Libya, and other countries. These protracted conflicts have resulted in protracted conflicts, instability, and heightened extremism within the area.
The rising global power of China
China used the opportunity to improve its standing internationally. China has become a major world power by emphasizing military expansion, technical development, and economic growth. China now has several significant advantages over the United States. First, it is the largest economy in the world in terms of purchasing power parity (PPP). Another is its hegemony in international exports and manufacturing. Anybody may also enroll China as a leader in 5G technology development, with widespread adoption and creativity.
Furthermore, the United States confronts serious challenges from China’s possession of cutting-edge military technologies, such as hypersonic missiles, anti-ship ballistic missiles, and sixth-generation fighter jets. Additionally, it possesses the world’s largest navy. High-tech sectors, including electronics, electric vehicles (EVs), battery technologies, and military equipment, depend on its strategic dominance over rare earth elements. In crucial areas like artificial intelligence, semiconductor technologies, and cutting-edge scientific research, China is predicted to overtake the United States in the next five years.
Turkey’s strategic role in regional stability
As a crucial NATO member, an important ally, and a player in promoting regional stability, Turkey stands out. Concerning organizations that pose serious dangers to regional security, such as the PKK/YPG and Daesh, Türkiye highlights the importance of counterterrorism cooperation. In response, it resolutely upholds its legal right to protect border security in line with international law. It looks to its partners for assistance in properly addressing these threats to promote peace and stability in its adjacent regions.
However, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has indicated an openness to a diplomatic accord. Ankara can offer a neutral and impartial platform in addressing Iran’s nuclear program, promoting efforts toward a peaceful and diplomatic resolution, and facilitating productive engagement. Furthermore, Turkey is a successful mediator that may support larger efforts to “End the Russia-Ukraine war” as well as Middle Eastern stability due to its distinct geopolitical location and diplomatic activities.
Turkey’s capacity to play a crucial role is further strengthened by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s unique leadership style, which is admired by both President Trump and President Vladimir Putin. The United States would then be able to concentrate on strengthening its position and reorienting its strategic goals if the area became stable. In the end, the most effective and least expensive way to achieve lasting peace while avoiding the escalation of disputes that could result in a world war is to put diplomatic solutions ahead of regional tensions, following international law.
The United States is at a critical juncture, and the incoming government has four years to act quickly and decisively to resolve these issues. To protect its national security and preserve its reputation around the world, the United States must change its foreign policy. If the United States ignores this change in strategy, it will encounter a world order shaped by emerging nations like China that could be at odds with its fundamental goals.
Is the US having conflicts with the Middle East?
Fundamental questions concerning American priorities are brought up by this circumstance. The United States’ position would be weakened by another military operation in the area, and China would have more time to concentrate on uniting Taiwan. Russia may find new ways to increase its military operations in western Ukraine by redirecting US attention and resources. These operations could put pressure on NATO and cause rifts, particularly among EU partners.
Furthermore, these measures might accelerate the yuan’s internationalization and weaken the dollar’s hold on world markets in light of the escalating geopolitical tensions.
