Did America ever have a plan for the Middle East? | The Economist (Level 1)

America has been involved in the Middle East for many years. One reason is oil. Another reason is support for Israel. Since 2011, America has had no clear plan for the region. It often reacts to events. Now America is pulling back its military from Syria and Iraq, and reducing its presence in the Gulf. But experts say that does not mean there will be a power vacuum. Iran's leadership has been weakened but can recover quickly. Inside Iran, there is a struggle for power, and the next leader is not clear. Gulf countries worry about Iran. A strong Iran could control the Strait of Hormuz, while a weak Iran might collapse and create more problems. So the region remains unstable.