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.

The new U.S. president will want to invest hard strategic resources in the Asia-Pacific region, which will require the use of diplomatic and economic measures to maintain its strategic presence in the Middle East. The arrangement looks reasonable, but it is doomed to fail.

Both the UAE and Saudi Arabia, with relatively young leaders, have the will to promote trade and military cooperation with Israel. But putting their national interests ahead of the broader interests of the Arab world may not play well in the long run.

The agreement of the United Arab Emirates and Israel to establish diplomatic ties could dramatically change the landscape of the entire Gulf region. Israel is applauding, and no wonder: The deal cost it nothing. But Palestine and Iran are aggrieved.

Attacks on nuclear-related sites in Iran set back the country’s ability to refine uranium by at least one or two years. Retaliation against Israel can be expected, maybe even war. But in an election year, the U.S. will probably keep its distance.

Negotiations bring hope, but some doubt that the peace agreement can be implemented. Inside Afghnistan there are many variables, including the disputed release of Taliban prisoners, as well as suspicions about Ameri-ca’s true intentions.

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.

The assassination of Major General Soleimani reflects regime change operations that have taken a perilous turn in a volatile region.

Hatred runs deep between the two countries. Thus, even if tensions recede, hostility is likely to remain, or even increase. In the end, it will benefit no one.