The Source of the Middle East Conflict: Who Lit the Match and Who Poured the Fuel

Saudi Arabia and Israel find themselves at the center of a global power struggle, with implications that could lead to a widespread conflict. The recent attacks on Israel by various groups have been framed as a Hamas-Israel war, but the underlying issues are much broader.

The announcement of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor triggered the attacks on October 7th, highlighting the complex web of geopolitical interests at play. The United States has been working to normalize relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel, despite tensions with both countries’ leadership.

China’s surprise peace deal between Iran and Saudi Arabia in 2023 raised eyebrows, as it marked a significant departure from their usual diplomatic stance. The signing of the IMEC, a massive economic infrastructure project involving multiple countries, further escalated tensions with Russia and China, who see it as a threat to their economic interests.

The Saudi-Israeli normalization process is at the heart of these conflicts, with both countries unwittingly caught in the crossfire of larger geopolitical rivalries. The US is pushing to solidify their interests in the region, while China, Russia, and Iran are left with few options to stop the process other than resorting to regional warfare.

As the world focuses on the details of individual conflicts, it’s essential to step back and see the bigger picture. The stakes are high, and the decisions made in the coming months could have far-reaching consequences for the entire region.