While the US withdraws its troops from the Middle East, it’s putting in place a framework to secure its interests.

The US’ efforts to establish hegemony in the Middle East has undermined nuclear nonproliferation, instigated and prolonged conflict, and scuppered the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.

Other parties to the deal should stick to it to lower the risk of conflict.

The future Middle East order will be characterized by interactions among regional actors instead of external ones.

America’s decision to move its embassy to Jerusalem is a reckless attempt to distract from its domestic problems.

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.

Western overconfidence cost President Obama and US allies the chance to shape the resolution of the Syrian crisis. Turkey’s realignment with Russia and Iran on the issue is a game-changer, for no neighboring countries of Syria can replace the role of Turkey for the Western alliance.

The first round of the talk between the Syrian government and opposition parties is expected to be held for two to three weeks, discussing the political process, ceasefire, provisions for humanitarian assistance, and the fight against terrorism. The good news is that Russia and the United States have reached common ground in their mediation efforts.