As U.S. influence recedes, China’s role in the region can be expected to grow. It will push for peace, rather than dominate decision-making. China respects the people and will encourage them to be their own masters.

Can the U.S. president accomplish his goals during his Middle East trip? Oil is the top priority, but the chance of success is perhaps 50 percent. Shaping an anti-Russia coalition won’t happen. Yet, Israel does offer some relatively low-hanging fruit.

The last few years have seen the United States pressing countries in the region to suspend cooperation with China. But wouldn’t it be better to take a more positive approach? There are plenty of opportunities.

The concept is a foreign one, as China has always stressed the independence of all nation-states as they make their own decisions both domestically and regionally. Moreover, the United States will not be leaving the Middle East anytime soon.

China has called for an immediate cease-fire and an end to violence to save the lives of innocent civilians on both sides. The ultimate solution, in China’s view, lies in a two-state solution. The Palestinians who live in the region are entitled to a state of their own, no less than Israelis.

President Donald Trump’s authorization of a drone strike that assassinated Iranian General Qassem Suleimani is the icing on the cake for his record of erratic and unpredictable foreign policy. More importantly, it has opened the door for China and Russia to gain military, economic, and diplomatic influence in the Middle East.

The death of Qassim Suleimani highlights the growing divide between the US and the Middle East at large, a divide which may create an opportunity for China to strengthen regional ties.

China has made numerous short-term gains in the Middle East via its involvement in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, whereas weak policy U.S. in the region has few consequences but also few returns.

The election of Hassan Rouhani could serve as a turning point for Iran both domestically and internationally. With a moderate politician leading this important nation, the time for the U.S and China to engage and reintegrate Iran into the international system is now; otherwise, the Middle East will continue to be plagued by violence.

The apparent unilateral action in violation of international law by the U.S. sends an alarming signal to the international community. Whether this is just a one-off deal or it signals the Trump administration’s change of policy back to unilateralism, it brings unpredictable consequences to international peace and stability.