Current US Foreign Policy In The Middle East

By Krystal Branch


Changing political environment has placed the current US foreign policy in the Middle East under test. Different governments over the years have shown disparity in their tackling of issues affecting the region. The sensitivity of this relationship reminds people that the region was strategically a European stronghold considering that they defeated the Ottoman rule.

The image of America, especially before world wars, was an untainted, respectful and non-partisan friend. They were credited for developing the best oil engineers, work force, medicine and the best education institutions. Compared to the Americans, the Europeans passed as selfish and unreliable because of their duplicity. Natural resources, and especially oil, have made the region strategically important to world powers. The deposits can easily determine global crude oil prices.

Oil prices are an important factor when dealing with Middle East countries. This makes the region strategically important to American interests. The allies that exist in this area include Jordan, Israel, Kuwait, Turkey, Egypt, Morocco and Afghanistan. Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Qatar also fall among American allies. Their membership in Nato has always been questioned and led to cold relations with America.

Some ways used by America to maintain influence are hosting large military bases and weapon hauls, provision of military support during wars and humanitarian or economic aid. The increasing importance of nuclear weapons has also influenced the issues for this key region. Iraq was invaded by Bush administration with the aim of installing a friendly government. This has defined relationships with other countries considering the oil reserves and how strategic the country was.

The issues of the Persian Gulf were made worse by the Arab Spring. America has undergone a major test on its ability to maintain influence in this area. Syria has seen a conflict drag on for years now with the Obama Administration developing cold feet as it seeks a solution. This has made it an unreliable friend and revealed cracks in influence and control.

Another issue that is likely to divide the Arab states is a nuclear agreement that was entered with Iraq. While America invaded the nation in an attempt to get rid of such weapons yet it has made an about turn. The government is not yet stable which poses a risk to her neighbors. Israel has been at the center of all nuclear confrontations with her neighbors. This is bound to raise tension among nations surrounding them for a long while.

Russian and Asian economic giants are gaining ground by offering better deals than America. Russia has been at the center of the Syrian crisis at the expense of America. The instability in Egypt is blamed on American indecisiveness which saw Mubarak forcibly removed despite his pro-west stand. The unstable policies guided by change in governance are causing concerns to Gulf States.

The current US foreign policy in the Middle East is facing a test from Iran. She has shown persistent interest in nuclear weapons and is blamed for supporting terrorism. Bahrain has openly shown displeasure with these developments. America is finding it difficult to hold on to old allies in the wake of changing global interests.




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