A New Cold War is not in the interest of either the U.S. or China, particularly given the volatility in the Middle East. In fact, the two nations share common interests in the region, and the threat of widespread conflict should inspire an element of strategic sobriety and tactical cooperation.

The role of the U.S. and China is pivotal in shaping the potential outcomes of the Israel-Gaza conflict, and while China already supports more balanced developments, Washington should take notes and implement a diplomatic solution that considers the needs of all peoples and communities.

Direct military engagement by the United States and UK against Houthi forces in Yemen is not helping to resolve the crisis. It only encourages the Houthis to dig in deeper in support of the Palestinians against Israel. Resolution of the conflict in Gaza will have a positive effect on the Houthis.

The latest round of the Israel-Hamas conflict has dragged the Israeli-Palestinian issue back to center stage in the Middle East. While China played a positive role in getting Iran and Saudi Arabia to the negotiating table, the violence in Gaza could influence the election prospects of U.S. President Joe Biden and the Democratic Party.

False images cannot obscure the truth for long. Eventually, the truth comes out for the world to see. The humanitarian disaster in Palestine will not go away until Israel and the United States change their policies and turn the only viable alternative — a two-state solution — into reality.

Despite massive aid, U.S. policies have failed to achieve peace in Israel, West Bank and Gaza, thus eroding U.S. credibility in the region. Why did U.S. policies fail? Could Chinese policies contribute to peace?

The Butterfly Effect has taken flight. China’s diplomatic accomplishment in reconciling Saudi Arabia and Iran could have far-reaching consequences, with Ukraine’s future caught in its wake. The unexpected nature of this historic move means that its ramifications are rapidly gaining momentum and could unleash a tidal wave of global proportions, particularly in Europe.

China has maintained a minimal presence in the Middle East over the last few decades, but Beijing’s mediation between Iran and Saudi Arabia demonstrates that Beijing is staking out a new, positive role in the region.

Israel’s security concerns should be respected, but the U.S. cannot ignore the other side of the story. It should help make peace between Israel and Palestine by restricting Israel’s hard-line approach. If America’s humanitarian concerns are genuine, it should take action.