Rising tensions in the Middle East are a phenomenon that has attracted global attention over the past few decades. Various geopolitical, economic, and social factors contribute to instability in the region. One of the main causes is the prolonged conflict between Israel and Palestine. These tensions often culminate in violence that has a significant impact on the daily lives of civilians, as well as influencing politics in neighboring countries. Apart from the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, the prolonged war in Syria has also worsened the situation. Since 2011, Syria has been caught in a civil war involving various factions, including ISIS and rebel groups. Military interventions from countries such as Russia and the US add complexity to the conflict, fueling sectarian rivalry between Sunnis and Shiites in the region. This intervention not only had an impact on Syria, but also affected the stability of surrounding countries, such as Lebanon and Iraq. Tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia are also in the spotlight. Regional competition between these two countries is often expressed through proxy wars in other countries, such as Yemen. In Yemen, the conflict between the Iran-backed Houthis and the Saudi Arabia-backed Yemeni government has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis. Blockades and military attacks from both sides have had a serious impact on civil society, creating an urgent need for humanitarian assistance. This tension is also closely related to economic aspects. Rising oil prices and their impact on the global economy add another layer of complexity to the region. Oil producing countries, such as Saudi Arabia and Iraq, face the challenge of maintaining economic stability while seeking to reduce dependence on oil. Meanwhile, international sanctions against Iran have resulted in economic stagnation, increasing dissatisfaction among the public which could trigger potential demonstrations. In the context of global politics, shifts in the foreign policies of major countries also influence dynamics in the Middle East. For example, the “America First” policy initiated by former President Trump has changed US diplomatic priorities in the region. On the other hand, increased cooperation between Iran and Russia indicates a change in traditional alliances that could impact the regional balance of power. Social media also plays a role in disseminating information and mass mobilization, but on the other hand it can be used to spread propaganda and hatred, exacerbating tensions. The emergence of movements such as the Arab Spring shows how people in the Middle East want to advocate for social and political change. However, the government’s repressive response often results in more tension and unrest. In facing this complicated situation, diplomatic efforts need to continue to be encouraged. Whether through direct dialogue between countries, or through international organizations such as the UN, the search for peaceful solutions is very important to create stability in the region. All communities need to realize that tensions in the Middle East are not just a local problem, but have much broader implications for global security and stability.
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