Trump and Xi Jingping summit: How are the United States and China redefining their relationship?

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As tensions over trade, Taiwan, technology, and global influence intensify, the meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping may determine the future balance of power between Washington and Beijing. By Dr. Pshtiwan Faraj | Sulaimani, Iraq | 13 May 2026 — Kurdish Policy Analysis "We don't have permanent allies and we don't have permanent enemies, only our interests are permanent, and we have to follow them." – Henry John Temple. The root of the current Strait of Hormuz tensions is not only about shipping routes or oil prices, but also about the final collapse of the historical US concept towards Beijing. However, the 2025 National Security Strategy, released by the White House in November, says this was a historic mistake because China used the assets it accumulated to strengthen itself and compete with the West, not to become their partner. For many years, the United States alone maintained maritime security; The fifth US ship in Manama, Bahrain, worked only to keep o...

Trump Claims Secret US-Iran Talks Could End Middle East War

From War Threats to Peace Talks in Hours: What Is Really Happening Between the US and Iran?

March 23, 2026 | By Pshtiwan Faraj

U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington and Tehran have held “very good and productive conversations” aimed at achieving a “complete and total resolution of hostilities” in the Middle East, signaling a possible дипломатический shift after weeks of escalating conflict.

In remarks released Monday, Trump indicated that discussions between U.S. and Iranian officials had taken place over the past two days and would continue throughout the week, raising cautious hopes for de-escalation in a conflict that has shaken global energy markets and regional stability.

Talks Amid Escalation

The announcement comes at a critical moment. Just hours earlier, Trump had threatened military strikes against Iranian energy infrastructure unless Tehran reopened the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil route.

The crisis has intensified in recent days, with both sides exchanging warnings and military posturing, pushing the region closer to a broader confrontation.

Trump’s latest comments suggest a temporary pause in escalation, with indications that planned strikes could be delayed as talks progress.

A Shift Toward Diplomacy?

While details of the talks remain unclear, previous diplomatic contacts between the U.S. and Iran have been indirect, often mediated by regional actors such as Oman.

Trump has previously stated he is seeking a “real end” to the conflict rather than a temporary ceasefire, signaling that any agreement could involve broader strategic concessions rather than a short-term truce.

Analysts note that the language of a “complete resolution” suggests ambitions for a comprehensive deal — potentially covering military activity, regional influence, and maritime security.

Skepticism and Uncertainty

Despite the optimistic tone, significant skepticism remains.

Iran has repeatedly warned it will retaliate against any U.S. military action, including threats to target regional energy infrastructure and restrict shipping in the Gulf.

Meanwhile, U.S. officials have continued to emphasize military preparedness, with troop deployments and contingency plans still in motion.

The gap between both sides’ positions — particularly on security, influence, and control of key waterways — remains wide.

Global and Regional Stakes

The outcome of these talks could have major implications:

  • Global oil markets: The Strait of Hormuz handles around one-fifth of global oil supply, making stability critical
  • Regional security: Escalation risks drawing in multiple countries across the Middle East
  • Economic fallout: global market have already reacted with volatility amid war fears

Implications for Iraq and Kurdistan

For Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, any breakthrough — or collapse — in talks carries immediate consequences:

  • Energy exports: Stability in Hormuz directly impacts oil revenues
  • Security risks: Iraq remains vulnerable to spillover from U.S.-Iran tensions
  • Political pressure: Baghdad and Erbil may face increased diplomatic balancing between Washington and Tehran

Outlook

Trump’s announcement introduces a new variable into an already volatile situation — the possibility of diplomacy overtaking escalation.

However, with military threats still active and no confirmed agreement from Iran, the situation remains fragile.

The coming days — particularly whether talks continue or collapse — could determine whether the region moves toward de-escalation or a wider war.


#Trump #Iran #MiddleEast #BreakingNews #Geopolitics #Hormuz #Iraq #Kurdistan

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