In the text, you read this about U.s. policy in the Middle East:

The United States had strong ties to North Africa and Southwest Asia. This region lies where the continents of Africa, Asia, and Europe meet. It is a region inhabited by Jews, Christians, and Muslims. As in past years, old conflicts in this region continued after 2000, and new conflicts emerged. The United States was a close ally of Israel, a mainly Jewish nation. At the same time, the U.S. economy relied on the oil production of Muslim nations, such as Saudi Arabia. The United States tried to resolve conflicts in this region. It remained committed to supporting democracy, its allies, and its own national interests.
Use the passage to answer the question.
Based on information in the passage, what generalization about U.S. policy in the region described is best supported?
(1 point)
The United States has
• often intervened in Middle Eastern religious conflicts.
U.S. leaders must carefully balance competing goals.
U.S. energy needs mostly
• shape foreign policy in the Middle East.
The United States has
• repeatedly changed its approach to the region.

Based on the information in the passage, the generalization that U.S. leaders must carefully balance competing goals is best supported. The passage mentions that the United States was a close ally of Israel, a mainly Jewish nation, while also relying on oil production from Muslim nations such as Saudi Arabia. This indicates that U.S. policy in the region involves balancing relations with different religious and political groups, as well as economic considerations.