China: The New Power Broker in the Arab-Israeli Conflict

China’s long-standing foreign policy of non-interference in the domestic affairs of other countries means it is often perceived as having a neutral position when it comes to conflicts. It’s no different than when it comes to the Arab-Israeli conflict. Beijing sides with neither, having good diplomatic relations with both.

China placed itself forward as an honest broker in the world's most vexing disputes: the Arab-Israeli conflict. Beijing offered to help organize and host peace talks on a neutral soil. Many countries around the world expressed serious consideration for the proposal given America’s lack of credibility, arguing that there is no better suited or more willing and able global player than China.

Some Muslim countries use the Arab-Israeli conflict to demonstrate their concern. In reality, those same Arab/Muslim countries “do not give a hoot” about Palestine or the Arab-Israeli conflict. They use the conflict to mask their inadequate leadership and failed economic, educational, and social policies. Alas, these Muslim countries ignore the wishes and demands of their own citizens.

One thing is sure: The world does not trust the U.S. to be an honest broker since it claims to sponsor a peace process when it has decided in advance that it will back one side over the other? Will China succeed? Time will tell sooner than later, I hope!

David Oualaalou is a Geopolitical Consultant, Award Winning Educator, Veteran, Author, and former International Security analyst in Washington, D.C.