Arab countries in particular will play an important role as event in the Russia-Ukraine conflict disrupt economic patterns. They may see an opportunity to regain stature in the international arena.

During the Cold War, Europe was America’s strategic priority. East Asia was largely a sideshow, even though the United States fought bloody wars in Korea and Vietnam, and also provided security for Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan.

America has failed, but the effect should be modest for China, which has taken reasonable steps to eradicate the roots of extremism at home and weakened external links. Its constructive role must continue.

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.