The Gulf States and the U.S. Presidential Election
The short-term effects of the U.S. presidential election for policy toward the Gulf region are likely to be minimal, though the most consequential effect may be indirect and long term.
A unique pattern of provincial or regional consortiums from China are deeply engaged in marquee Belt and Road Initiative projects that are shaping the future of China’s power in the Gulf.
The Kuwaiti emir’s visit to China generated intense debate, centered around a rumor about a deal to develop Kuwait’s northern islands, highlighting anxieties about the country’s future.
With China’s strong and stable economy and large-scale domestic market, the GCC states are finding a promising opportunity in strengthening economic ties.
While Iraqi leaders consistently emphasize the importance of Western investment in their energy sector, their actions instead are increasing Iraq’s dependence on Chinese markets and oil firms.
Learn MoreThe short-term effects of the U.S. presidential election for policy toward the Gulf region are likely to be minimal, though the most consequential effect may be indirect and long term.
Regardless of who prevails in November's presidential election, the next U.S. administration may contend with either a nuclear-armed or fragmented Iran.
Iraq’s Kurdish population may benefit more from a consistent U.S. foreign policy under Harris than the unpredictability of another Trump term.
Through its careful examination of the forces shaping the evolution of Gulf societies and the new generation of emerging leaders, AGSIW facilitates a richer understanding of the role the countries in this key geostrategic region can be expected to play in the 21st century.
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