DOHA, Qatar—When Americans look at events in the Middle East, they do not have a clear and simple response. The extent of conflict and instability they see bewilders them. Among all the competing groups, they do not see a side they identify with. And they are not inclined to take sides. They are not even sure it is a good idea for the US to be deeply involved—not because they do not care, but because they are not sure there is anything the US can do that would do much good.