The article argues that the post-Cold War era of U.S. unipolarity, established by the perceived invincibility demonstrated during the Gulf War, has ended. This decline is driven by globalization and technological diffusion, which have democratized advanced military capabilities, allowing regional actors to challenge major powers. Consequently, policymakers must prepare for a more volatile international order marked by frequent crises, heightened costs for securing global trade chokepoints, and reduced predictability from American power. The new rules dictate that great powers can no longer effortlessly impose their will through force.
The Real Risks of the Saudi-UAE Feud
English Summary
The escalating rift between Saudi Arabia and the UAE represents a significant source of regional instability. The rivalry, which intensified following clashes over Yemen, has seen Saudi media accuse the UAE of destabilizing North Africa and acting as a proxy for Israel. Analysts warn that this public discord is merely the surface manifestation of deeper, unresolved geopolitical tensions. The continued friction between these two major Gulf powers suggests sustained volatility and complicates regional security planning.
中文摘要
沙烏地阿拉伯與阿聯酋之間日益加深的裂痕,是區域不穩定性的重要來源。這場競爭在因葉門衝突加劇後,變得愈發激烈;沙烏地媒體甚至指控阿聯酋正在破壞北非的穩定,並充當以色列的代理人。分析人士警告,這種公開的矛盾僅是更深層、未解決的地緣政治緊張局勢的表象。這兩大海灣強國之間持續的摩擦,預示著持續的波動性,並使區域安全規劃變得更加複雜。
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