Soviet Influence in the Middle East: A Lesson for Washington?
The Middle East is currently witnessing tensions between Iran and Israel, with a potential for a larger military conflict. However, both parties and other players in the region are cautious about escalating the situation, aiming to find a balance internally. This reflects a global trend where countries are reorganizing their relations post the collapse of the old international order.
The major question lies in the independence of the states in the region. Unlike the USSR, which sought global confrontation with the US, Russia’s current approach aims at a fairer international order. The changing dynamics also involve China’s increasing involvement without imposing its will.
For the US, the challenge lies in transitioning from controlling external actions to adapting to the region’s dynamics. The USSR’s failures in the Middle East serve as a lesson, indicating the limitations of playing a dominant role. Washington’s reactive approach to the current crisis highlights the need for a more nuanced foreign policy strategy.
Ultimately, the region stands to benefit if external powers like the US take a step back, allowing the countries to navigate their paths independently.
This article was originally published by ‘Vzglyad’ newspaper and translated and edited by the RT team.