Geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East have experienced significant shifts in recent years, creating new tensions that affect regional stability and international relations. Various factors, ranging from old conflicts to the rise of new powers, have complicated the geopolitical map in the region. One major factor is increasing competition between Iran and Saudi Arabia. The two have been involved in various proxy conflicts in countries such as Yemen, Syria and Iraq. Iran, seeking to expand its influence, often runs head-to-head with Saudi interests, which seek to maintain Sunni dominance in the region. Both countries’ foreign policies have exacerbated ethnic and sectarian tensions, creating new patterns in interstate relations. Additionally, shifting regional alliances have become an important highlight. Relations between Israel and several Arab countries, including the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, have improved through the Abraham Accords. This suggests a realignment of alliances with a focus on the shared threat from Iran. However, this move also sparked reactions from Palestine and the countries that support it, who feel marginalized in the peace process. Internal conflicts in countries such as Syria and Libya have also contributed to new tensions. The involvement of foreign powers, such as Russia and Türkiye, further complicates the situation. Russia is seeking to assert its dominance, while Türkiye is seeking influence in areas previously considered areas of Russian control. This balance of power creates the potential for new tensions and large-scale conflict. Economics also plays an important role in geopolitical dynamics. Dependence on oil and gas in the Middle East has the potential to trigger competition. With the shift to renewable energy, many countries are focusing on economic diversification. This makes oil producing countries strive to maintain their markets and influence in the global market, creating new frictions between national interests. The humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict also creates new challenges. The number of refugees continues to increase and social instability has the potential to spread to neighboring and European countries. The handling of this issue is often a source of fierce political debate at the international level. International sanctions against Iran, especially regarding its nuclear program, continue to weigh on the country’s economy and trigger strong reactions from the government. Iran is seeking new allies and increasing its military capacity, which could trigger a reaction from Western countries. These dynamics add a layer of complexity to conflict resolution in the Middle East. Global political developments also have an influence. United States foreign policy under the new administration appears to focus more on a shift to the Asia-Pacific, leaving room for other countries, such as Russia and China, to pursue their interests in the Middle East. This marks the end of US dominance in the region and the potential emergence of a new, risk-taking power. The tensions resulting from all these factors made the Middle East the center of world attention. The international community must closely monitor developments in this region, because their impact is not only limited to the region itself, but also affects global stability. By looking at the existing complexity, it is important to analyze every shift that occurs with a broader perspective, in order to strive for peace and stability in the Middle East.
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