Middle Eastern leaders are now familiar with Trump’s approach. However, familiarity with unpredictability does not necessarily equate to prudent management of it. The United States is still the most powerful actor in the region, with a vast network of military bases and more than 40,000 troops. Therefore, Donald Trump’s possible return to the presidency could bring a sense of unpredictability and volatility to the Middle East. The intensifying great power rivalry between the United States and China adds another layer of complexity. Under Trump’s leadership, this rivalry could escalate further, creating new fault lines and potential conflicts. Whatever Trump intends to accomplish in office, it will be his execution that should concern all alike in the Middle East.

M. Hasim Tekines worked in the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He now regularly writes about Turkey and Middle Eastern politics.

Image: Lev Radin / Shutterstock.com.