The Middle East reveals the U.S. as the only serious global power

France and its European allies perform; America leads.

The past week has made one thing clear: in the Middle East, the United States remains the only serious global power. Washington acts with strategy, vision, and an understanding of consequences. Europe, by contrast—led by France and followed by countries like Australia, Britain, and Spain—too often performs for the cameras rather than engages with substance.

France’s recognition of a Palestinian state, announced without conditions, was met with ridicule from Israeli ministers and concern from French diplomats themselves. 

Headlines were made; influence was not. This is the stark difference between spectacle and strategy.

The Middle East is no place for vanity. Iran expands its reach through proxies. Conflicts rage in Syria and Yemen. The Gulf remains fragile. Empty gestures—publicized but uncalculated—do real damage: they raise false expectations, alienate partners, and embolden adversaries.

The United States understands that leadership in this region requires depth, patience, and credibility. Europe’s frequent improvisation exposes it as a spectator. Prestige cannot substitute for policy. Quick wins for headlines leave nations sidelined when real decisions matter.

Europe could play a constructive role. Its historical, cultural, and economic ties are deep. Diplomacy done right could complement American power. But so long as European leaders chase appearances, the world will continue to look to Washington for real leadership.

The contrast is unmistakable: the United States acts with purpose; Europe performs. In the Middle East, inattention and superficiality carry high costs. 

Leadership cannot be improvised. America demonstrates once again that power and vision must go hand in hand—Europe must confront its own immaturity if it hopes to remain relevant.

What happened in Washington yesterday wasn’t just another policy rollout — it bore the unmistakable imprint of Jared Kushner. 

The White House unveiled a 20-point Gaza plan, and Netanyahu gave it his public backing, transforming symbolism into substance. 

That pivot happened because Kushner injected the credibility and momentum others lacked. His Abraham Accords track record, his personal trust with Gulf leaders, and his ability to cut through bureaucracy turned an abstract framework into something Israel could sign onto. 

The shift was simple: once Kushner leaned in, Washington stopped talking theory and started presenting an actionable horizon.