The Energy Interests of the United States in the Foreign Policy of the Persian Gulf Countries

Abstract

The article reviews the stages of oil discovery and its transformation in the United States of America, as the U.S. sought to compete with oil-producing states in the Persian Gulf region. The growing interest of states in crude oil within the context of the energy transition is discussed, along with the initial stages of energy diplomacy with Saudi Arabia and other countries in the region, as the formation of future interests would be impossible without such connections. Since 1972, oil has become the main source of energy, leading to an increase in consumption. Due to high demand, oil prices have risen significantly. As 63% of the world’s proven oil reserves are located in the Arabian Gulf, the energy interests of the United States have remained consistent across different presidential administrations, bringing it closer to oil-producing countries. The steps taken by each U.S. president from 1991 to 2024 toward the global energy transition are discussed, along with their future visions, benefits, and risks. While U.S. foreign policy in the Persian Gulf was previously focused on military interventions, it has increasingly shifted toward economic and energy diplomacy. During its period of economic modernization, China viewed the Persian Gulf as a logical partner for development. It began making its first investment in Iraq’s oil sector, followed by broader oilfield development projects. China is shaping its energy interests through strategic cooperation with Iran, supported by memorandums of understanding (MOUs), which address both current and future drilling activities across the region. Plans emphasize the transition to clean energy and focus on how to achieve low-carbon development.