US-China Summit Could Shape Middle East Conflict Risks

Middle Eastern outlets link the US–China summit directly to the risk of the region’s next war, arguing that great-power rivalry will shape whether any conflict stays local or spreads. They stress that US plans for a ‘Golden Dome’ air defence shield, Iran’s missile and drone capabilities, and Israel–Gulf security ties are all now filtered through how Washington and Beijing manage their competition. Commentators in the region see China’s hosting of both Trump and Putin as a sign that outside powers, not regional governments, may decide the limits of the next major confrontation.

• •Regional analysts argue that the US–China summit will influence how far Washington backs Israel and Gulf partners in any future clash with Iran or its allies.
• •China’s criticism of the ‘Golden Dome’ project is seen as aligning Beijing more closely with Iran’s concerns about US-led defence systems.
• •Middle Eastern commentary warns that if US–China rivalry hardens, future wars could draw in both powers through arms supplies, sanctions and diplomatic cover.
• •China’s role as host to both Trump and Putin is interpreted as an attempt to become the main outside power shaping Middle East diplomacy.
• •Writers in the region say local governments have limited room to shape outcomes when US, Chinese and Russian interests collide over energy routes and security guarantees.