DAMASCUS - BY MIDDLE EAST INSIDER - Oct 17,2023

 

Irrespective of the nomenclature, whether it be referred to as West Asia or the Middle East, the region can be characterized as an area where states share close historical, cultural, and geographical ties. It encompasses the Arab League states along with Iran and Egypt, some of which overlap between the regions. While Israel geographically belongs to West Asia and the Middle East, it exhibits stronger political and cultural affiliations with Europe, engaging in European events and maintaining connections with European countries.

 

The geostrategic significance of West Asia lies in its role as a crucial link between the East and West, both by land and sea. The region hosts vital international waterways and holds substantial economic and political influence on the global stage.

 

Throughout recent decades, West Asia has been a focal point of global security concerns, marked by numerous disputes and external involvement. Multiple countries in the region have employed military force on their own territories, while others have been involved in conflicts on foreign soil.

 

Notably, West Asia lacks an inclusive regional security system, as attempts to establish one have faced challenges due to the region's complex dynamics and tensions among various powers. As chaos persists, the issue of security and stability becomes urgent and critical in one of the world's most turbulent regions. The interplay of regional powers, external intervention, and lack of trust among political actors exacerbates the security dilemma.

 

Given the recent dramatic events in the region, including the Arab Spring, the rise of terrorism and religious extremist groups, shifting perceptions of America's commitment to regional stability, and the emergence of China and Russia as influential players, there is a question of whether the current moment is opportune to initiate the establishment of a comprehensive security system.

 

While forming such a system is challenging due to existing disagreements, historical precedents like ASEAN, OSCE, and GCC provide examples of organizations that have managed conflicts and promoted regional stability.

To achieve a comprehensive and sustainable security system, it is essential to recognize that some issues cannot be resolved immediately, and cooperation in certain areas may be more feasible than in others. 

 

International transformations, the rise of new powers in Asia and Eurasia, the struggle for energy and influence, geopolitical dynamics, and counterterrorism efforts have prompted regional governments to reconsider their policies and seek cooperation and political openness.

As part of this shift in thinking, regional actors have been strengthening strategic relations with other global powers like Russia, China, India, and Pakistan. These partnerships aim to foster collaboration in politics, security, defense, economy, technology, space, and nuclear energy.

 

Efforts are also underway to combat common challenges such as terrorism, extremism, piracy, human trafficking, and drug smuggling. A special maritime security system is being discussed to protect vital sea lanes in the region.

 

The establishment of a comprehensive and cooperative regional security system is a challenging diplomatic and political endeavor that requires patience, flexibility, creativity, and perseverance. Previous experiences demonstrate that such efforts can lead to significant results. The ultimate goal is to provide the peoples of West Asia with a legitimate, effective, inclusive, and multilateral security organization that promotes trust, good neighborliness, and peaceful resolution of conflicts.

 

To facilitate this process, there is a call for an informal network that includes civil society organizations, experts, research centers, academics, and think tanks to support official and governmental directions in launching and establishing the regional security dialogue. This collective approach aims to reduce tensions, manage crises, prevent conflicts, and foster peaceful coexistence.

 

While building stronger relations with global powers like Russia, China, and others can complement the region's traditional ties with the United States and Europe, it is vital to focus on building a common long-term vision and reliable guarantees for a stable and secure future.

 

The geopolitics of West Asia are subject to change, and addressing the region's security challenges requires comprehensive dialogue and cooperation among all stakeholders. Building a cooperative security structure is a complex task, but the commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity must prevail over divisions and conflicts for the betterment of the region and its people.