Dr Jin Liangxiang is a research fellow at Shanghai Institutes for International Studies. His current research fields are Middle East politics and international relations.
The assassination of Iranian Major General Qassem Soleimani could fan the flames of protest in the Middle East and pose a serious political and security challenge to the U.S. President, his administration and the American people.
American Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's remark on the legality of Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territory is foolish and can only damage any prospect of the U.S. playing a mediation role.
Despite violent protests, Iran's action in cutting a longstanding petrol subsidy could have good results long-term, but may also encourage the U.S. to further tighten the sanctions screw.
Israel's action to target pro-Iran military proxies in three neighboring countries threatens a dangerous escalation in the Middle East difficult to contain.
The reported U.S.-Turkey deal on Syria is by no way a solution to their disputes, and their bargaining over Syria's territory is undermining the latter's sovereignty.
Trump's recognition of Israel's claim to the Golan Heights will undermine the world order, further tarnish the international image of the U.S. and impede the long-term goal of peace in the Middle East.