If we were not so dependent on ME oil we would not have to be involved with their religious politics. Why do you think the environmentalists are so well funded by the Saudis?
Pray for America to Wake Up
Oil is fungible. The US can become energy independent, but oil will remain vital to the global economy regardless. The ME, the greatest exporter of oil, will remain an extremely important region of the world for our strategic national interests.
I am all in favor of energy independence, which help our economy and balance of payments. It will also enhance national security. But it will not lessen our involvement in the ME.