Partnership choices crucial for future Gulf energy security - The National

The US has dominated Gulf energy security since the declaration of the "Carter Doctrine" in 1980. Under that doctrine, the US protected shipping during the Iran-Iraq war, expelled Saddam Hussein from Kuwait, invaded Iraq and now confronts Iran over the Strait of Hormuz.

But how long will a weakened US be content to play this role, when more and more of the Gulf's oil goes to rising powers in Asia?

Senior Gulf political and energy specialists debated this issue at the Brookings Doha Energy Forum last week. It is a timely question, with the US declaration that it would focus diplomatic efforts more on Asia counterpointing the Gulf tour of Wen Jiabao, the Chinese premier. That visit led to energy deals with Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi.

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