During a discussion session titled 'Towards a Multipolar World: Opportunities and Challenges for the Middle East' at the 17th Al Jazeera Forum in Doha, experts analyzed the shifting dynamics in global power balances. They emphasized that the Middle East is no longer just a battleground for great power rivalries; instead, it is becoming central to understanding the complexities of a changing international order. This transformation is marked by an increase in geopolitical competition and a visible decline in the unilateral ability to address crises.

The panel highlighted that recent experiences, especially concerning Gaza and major powers like the US, Russia, and China, demonstrate that the world is increasingly characterized by a multipolar influence. The war in Gaza, in conjunction with the strategies of these major powers, illustrates the limitations of the current international system, hinting at the emergence of new regional roles, reshaping global interactions. Accordingly, they argued for a balanced global system requiring rational negotiation and coordination among various players, including regional states.

Furthermore, the discussion underscored the necessity for cooperation and strategic dialogues to navigate the complexities of this evolving landscape. Experts contended that the Middle East can no longer be overlooked as simply a theater of conflict among superpowers but must be acknowledged for its growing agency and capacity to influence global affairs. This shift from a unipolar to a multipolar world may present both opportunities and challenges, necessitating comprehensive strategies from both local and global leaderships to foster stability and collaboration.