The United States and East Asia after Iraq

The US-led invasion of Iraq and its violent aftermath have had an adverse impact upon America's geo-strategic position in East Asia, but to date the consequences have been mitigated by a variety of countervailing factors. America's Asian allies and partners complain that US leaders are distracted by Iraq and the war on terrorism, and not devoting sufficient attention to Asia. The Iraq War has had a negative impact on the US image in Asia, but this has been partially offset by the efforts of Asian governments to encourage increased US regional engagement to balance China's growing economic and diplomatic role. The modest negative impact of the Iraq War might increase if the US commitment in Iraq drags on at a high level for several more years or if the United States is forced to withdraw suddenly, leaving behind a chaotic and unstable situation.