On July 29, the Center for Public Energy “Vezha” hosted an analytical discussion with Vira Konstantynova, head of the Geopolitical Research Center Constanta RND Group and adviser to the Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada (2019–2021). The focus was on the escalation between Israel and Hamas, changes in US positions, and the impact of Iran and China on global processes.
The "Chariots of Gideon" operation, launched by Israel in May 2025, aims to completely eliminate the threat of Hamas in the Gaza Strip. A resultant humanitarian crisis is widely covered by international media. The US, as noted by the expert, has aimed for a diplomatic solution, but Hamas’s approach has not yielded results, leading to a shift in rhetoric from Trump and US officials, driven by frustration with stalled negotiations.
Iran's ongoing support for Hamas was highlighted during the discussion. Recent US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites reveal a tougher policy, yet Iran’s nuclear ambitions remain a destabilizing factor in the Middle East. Parallels were drawn with the Russia-Ukraine war—both Kremlin and Tehran maintain aggressive stances toward neighboring states.
Special attention was paid to China’s role as a key global player. Despite official neutrality, Beijing indirectly influences both European and Middle Eastern affairs, notably through its economic support for Russia. China emerges as a strategic and economic partner for states opposing the Western bloc, with its role in future diplomacy set to expand.
Participants agreed that China is now the primary decision-maker in ending conflicts in both the Middle East and Russia-Ukraine confrontation. New challenges include an increased cynicism in world politics, focus on business interests, and sharper technological competition, especially in AI development.
The analysts stressed that the global community must prepare for new scenarios led by technological advancement, economic resilience, and the need to protect civilians during contemporary conflicts.
