Middle East and the International Strategic Shifts (original) (raw)

2019, Association of Academic Researchers and Faculties (AARF Publications)

Abstract The region of the Middle East witnesses a state of nervousness dominated by sectarian conflicts and the spread of the dangers of extremism and terrorism in most Arab countries, as well as the escalation of political and military competition among the major regional powers in changing the strategic balance equations through direct clashes or acting wars. Iran, Turkey, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Israel are the key forces in the region, each seeking to be the only superpower in the region. The Middle East may witness other, more surprising, strategic shifts that are contrary to all expectations and possible scenarios. Perhaps this was the first lesson we learned from the Arab Spring, which may have surprised the entire world in its unpredictability, as well as its consequences and its tracks. Therefore, the political landscape in the region and the transformations of the scene carries many opportunities and challenges for the various parties, and no one enjoys sovereignty and control in general, and therefore the strategic horizon and strategic dimensions of the International Research Journal of Human Resource and Social Sciences ISSN(O): (2349-4085) ISSN(P): (2394-4218) Impact Factor 5.414 Volume 6, Issue 8, August2019 Website- www.aarf.asia, Email : editoraarf@gmail.com © Association of Academic Researchers and Faculties (AARF) A Monthly Double-Blind Peer Reviewed Refereed Open Access International e-Journal - Included in the International Serial Directories. Page | 22 scene is still trying to form levers, both according to position and in accordance to the region‟s strategy. Key words: National Strategy, National security, Middle East, Arab Spring.**Abstract** The Middle East is experiencing a state of anxiety characterized by sectarian conflicts and the rise of extremism and terrorism across many Arab countries. This situation is compounded by heightened political and military competition among the major regional powers, as they seek to alter the strategic balance through direct confrontations or proxy wars. Key players in the region—including Iran, Turkey, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Israel—are each striving to emerge as the sole superpower. The region may also encounter unexpected strategic shifts that defy prevailing expectations and scenarios. The Arab Spring served as an early lesson in this unpredictability, surprising the entire world with its outcomes and consequences. As a result, the political landscape in the Middle East, along with its evolving dynamics, presents numerous opportunities and challenges for various stakeholders. No single entity enjoys full sovereignty or control, indicating that the strategic horizon remains in flux. The region is continuing to seek mechanisms to navigate its complexities, influenced by both geopolitical positions and overarching strategies. Key words: National Strategy, National Security, Middle East, Arab Spring.