The Impact of Economic and Technological Competition Between China and the United States on the Geopolitical Structure and Strategic Alliances in the Middle East in the 21st Century

Abstract

This study analyzes the growing economic and technological rivalry between China and the United States, how it is transforming the political landscape, and how it is reshaping alliances in the Middle East. The focus of the study is Israel, and more specifically the strategic competition between its long- standing relationship with the US and its burgeoning economic relationship with China. This study is significant for both identifying how emerging powers and regional actors reformulate their foreign policies, investments, and security policies in response to an increasingly multipolar world and for interacting with new powers who claim a techno-capitalist identity. Using qualitative research methods and semi-structured interviews, this work used purposive sampling and consulted with 40 experts, a mix of academics, policymakers, and journalists. The findings informed multiple research recommendations with respect to: Israel’s innovation policy, foreign aid to advancement technologies, the future of trade routes and lasting security, cybersecurity priorities for trade routes, military posture, and where countries look to leverage political powers, and closer ties or legitimacy by being less antagonistic with China. In conclusion, the research finds that Israel’s foreign/posture largely reflects a regional trend towards expanding networks of state partnerships, and a desire to maintain a minimal capability to become a superpower that enhance their security profile as China and the US remain locked in rivalry with one another. In some cases, the research recommends that policymakers really take the time to develop forward thinking strategies to inform diplomatic options like having room to be responsive in their diplomacy over time and in a manner that minimizes the impact of global rivalries on their sovereignty & regional stability. This study theoretically contributes to the discussions about the significance of managing multipolarity and unpacking techno-geopolitics. Practically, it serves as a starting point for policymakers on the 21^st century challenges of responding to superpower rivalries