Energy sources and conflicts
Energy sources such as oil, natural gas, and petroleum have been a significant source of conflict in the twenty-first century. The United States of America has recently made huge discoveries of natural gas and petroleum reserves. The United States' increased oil output is likely to have a variety of consequences for its relationship with the Middle East.
Impact on global oil prices
Given that oil is a global commodity, increased oil production in the United States would have a significant impact on global oil prices. However, the United States of America may withdraw its interest and security in the Middle East because the country can now supply enough energy through domestic production. As a result, policies like the fixation policy in the Middle East may have to change or be done away with altogether.
Dependence on Middle East
The country is dependent on other countries in the Middle East for energy and other commodities as well. For this reason, domestic oil production will not be sufficient to liberate the country from events in the Middle East. However, the ability to process own energy will make the U.S.A less vulnerable to the Middle East. Instead, it will gain a stronger negotiating power.
Reaction of Middle East leaders
However, the leaders in the Middle East are bound to react furiously towards the USA because they believe that the USA will change its relationship with them. For instance, the USA will withdraw its security for sea lanes or withdraw its presence from the Middle East region. The fear of these consequences would drive the Middle East leaders to take action that has a geo-political impact on the USA.
