Beyond US‑Israeli Hegemony: Building Inclusive Regional Cooperation to Address Structural Power Imbalances in the Middle East
Original framing: “Opinion: How a pragmatic axis could reshape the Middle East” — Middle East Eye
Scientific studies link climate‑induced water stress in the Jordan Basin and the Persian Gulf to heightened conflict risk, while econometric models demonstrate that diversified trade reduces reliance on militarised economies. Evidence‑based policy must therefore integrate climate adaptation and economic diversification into any regional framework.
The prevailing US‑Israeli axis perpetuates a security paradigm that marginalises indigenous knowledge, historic grievances, and climate pressures, reinforcing a cycle of violence and underdevelopment.
By weaving together indigenous water stewardship, historical lessons from colonial mandates, and cross‑cultural concepts of collective security, a new cooperative framework can redirect power from external patrons to regional actors. Scientific evidence underscores that climate adaptation and economic diversification are prerequisites for durable peace, while artistic‑spiritual narratives can cultivate a shared identity that transcends sectarian divides. Institutionalising inclusive security consortia, trans‑basin water governance, green investment, and truth‑seeking mechanisms offers a concrete roadmap that aligns justice, sustainability, and stability for the Middle East's diverse peoples.