ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the concepts covered in the preceding chapters of this book. The book suggests the concept of balance of power as a means of assessing matters in the Gulf region. It shows that assessments of Syria that have so magnified its role failed to take into account certain key variables. The book describes the United States has tried to match military force with national goals in the Middle East. As a superpower, it has permanent interests on land as well as strong maritime concerns. The book discusses the intrinsic problems in the alliance—namely, that North Atlantic Treaty Organization is neither general nor comprehensive. Moreover, its origins show a certain logic in not incorporating an alliance role for the Middle East. The book identifies the root of European distrust of the United States as a country defending "United States interest in Europe rather than a defender of 'European interests'."
