United States shifts Middle East strategy toward economic investment and development

Influential Washington circles argue the United States should change its Middle East policy, moving away from reliance on military force toward greater use of development, investment, and soft‑power tools. The call follows the February 28 launch of US‑Israeli attacks on Iran, which have destabilised the region and affected global energy markets.

The Iranian regime has shown resilience, responding asymmetrically and limiting the impact of US strikes on its leadership. US bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and Jordan, as well as damage in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Oman, underline the ongoing risks. Analysts stress the need to define a post‑conflict peace and to forge economic alliances and private‑sector initiatives to bolster stability.