New tensions between the United States (US) and China have heated up in recent months, with a number of incidents fueling fears of potential conflict. The emergence of this tension is rooted in various issues, including trade, technology, human rights and geopolitics. One of the main causes of tensions is the follow-up to the trade war that began in 2018. In recent months, the US has implemented a number of new tariffs on Chinese products, while China has retaliated with similar measures. This reduces expectations of global economic recovery and affects stock markets and investment. In the technology sector, US policies that limit Chinese companies such as Huawei and ZTE’s access to advanced technology continue to trigger reactions. China warned that this move would disrupt innovation progress and create gaps in global technology relations. As the US increases scrutiny of foreign investment, China accuses it of discrimination and violations of free trade principles. On the other hand, human rights issues in Xinjiang and Tibet are another source of tension. The US and Western countries accuse the Chinese government of systematic human rights violations against the Uighur ethnic group. In responding to these accusations, China firmly denied them, claiming that their actions were aimed at fighting extremism and safeguarding national security. The situation in the South China Sea also contributes to these tensions. The US continues to conduct freedom of navigation operations in the contested region, drawing Beijing’s ire. China’s territorial claims in the area have resulted in conflicts with neighboring countries such as the Philippines and Vietnam. The US affirmed its support for its allies in the region, emphasizing the importance of international law and freedom of navigation. Bilateral meetings between the leaders of the two countries also demonstrated this tension. In the latest meeting, despite dialogue on global issues, the two were unable to reach a significant agreement. Each side asserted their positions, and tensions appeared to deepen, creating fears of possible further military tensions. Analysts caution that diplomatic channels remain open, despite the complex situation. It is important for both countries to engage in dialogue to avoid unwanted escalation. More active diplomatic engagement could help ease tensions and create a basis for cooperation in areas such as climate change and global health. With ever-changing dynamics, tensions between the US and China show that international relations are deeply influenced by national policies, perceptions and interests. Monitoring these developments is important for understanding the future direction of world geopolitics, because every step taken by these two countries will have a much wider impact, not only for themselves but also for other countries around the world.