| المستخلص: |
In the last decade, the Russian role has risen notably in the Middle East, in general, after reaching unprecedented intervention levels in Syria and resetting the balance of power there. It is true that Moscow has adopted an active diplomacy in the region since President Vladimir Putin took over early 2000 and made breakthroughs in economic and technological cooperation with some countries in the region. However, many have not noticed any rise in Russia's new impact in the region until the Syrian crisis showed how significant it was. The events constituted a turning point that restored Moscow's status as superpower and major international player. In other words, due to the Middle East's geographical closeness and strategic and geopolitical significance, it is back on the top of Russian priorities. The present study investigates the Russian role in important matters that have to do with the Arab World. It looks into the dimensions, limits and factors boosting this part in different Arab issues. It is found that the Moscow's rising political role in the region is attributed to several factors, some of which have to with Moscow's vision and interests and others with the lack of trust in the US role found in a number of Middle Eastern countries. Russia's notable influence is not in the same progress for all the issues, but the relevant dimensions could be listed as follows: 1- Domination over the Syrian issue 2- Return to the Palestinian cause 3- Significant role in Libya 4- Unprecedented advancement in relations with Saudi Arabia 5- Breakthrough in strategic cooperation with Egypt. It is concluded that the Moscow's role in the Middle East is increasing in power and influence, mixing hard and soft power, i.e., between military strikes and diplomatic tools. Such parallel tracks aim at achieving the country's targets and interests while avoiding confrontation with other international and regional players in the region. As it adopts a strategy of cooperation, rather than clash, Moscow is not attempting to compete with Washington or any party. It believes that any direct or indirect confrontation will be costly for both parties and will negatively affect its ability to accomplish the objectives. Finally, as it seeks to attain interests with the least possible time and cost, Russia finds it necessary to coordinate with the international and regional players who have aspirations in the region.
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