The current U.S. policy toward Southeast Asia is generating a range of negative effects. If the United States fails to adjust its competitive, confrontational and self-serving foreign policy, its influence in the region is likely to face further decline.

Unfiltered, people-to-people interactions reveal the human complexity behind international relations and challenge simplistic “us vs. them” narratives. These everyday cross-cultural exchanges, including those through digital media like streamers’ travels, can reduce hostility and reshape how younger generations perceive countries like China and the United States.

Trump’s foreign policy setbacks, particularly with Iran, have complicated his diplomatic agenda and delayed a key summit with China, though both sides remain motivated by domestic and strategic incentives to pursue limited, pragmatic agreements. However, any cooperation will likely focus on narrow, short-term gains, as deep structural rivalry and mutual distrust continue to constrain meaningful long-term rapprochement.

For the United States and China, the very concept of a rules-based international order, once a topic of agreement, has turned into disagreement. That is the current distorted reality in their relationship. It is not only power that is at stake but the meaning of order itself.

The ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran represents one of the most significant geopolitical crises of 2026. It began in late February when U.S. and Israeli forces launched large-scale strikes on Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure, escalating long-standing tensions over Iran’s nuclear program and regional influence. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks across the Middle East, targeting U.S. bases and allied interests, turning the confrontation into a broader regional war. The conflict has disrupted global energy markets, intensified regional instability, and triggered fragile ceasefire efforts, highlighting the risk of prolonged confrontation and wider international consequences.

Even as Israeli bombs rained down on Lebanon, most of the world breathed a cautious sigh of relief when news broke that Pakistan had mediated a ceasefire between the United States and Iran, with the goal of reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

The multi-centered geographical distribution of UN agencies has been a reality, yet there is no comprehensive UN hub in East Asia. A two-step approach—pilot first, followed by institutional integration—could be adopted to leverage the region’s strengths in innovation and market, thereby building a new node of international governance.

China neither seeks nor intends to replace the United States in filling any so-called “vacuum”, nor should it be expected to play such a role, says leading Tsinghua IR scholar Da Wei in the recent interview with The Paper.

The visit of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to the United States showcased the internal solidarity of the alliance. But an official U.S. report warned Tokyo against escalating tensions with China.

It’s no secret that the relationship between Asia’s two largest states is far from friendly, but the present window of opportunity for new global leaders to take center-stage could turn things around if both play to their strengths.