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Monday, 17 February 2014

The 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.

America was regarded as non-partisan, respected and untainted before WWII. She brought the best education, medicine, professionals and especially oil engineers to the region. She acted in a mutual and friendly way and did not seem as selfish or acting with duplicity like the Europeans. The agreements entered regarding natural resources like oil made relations with countries in this area very important.

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.

Control of the area is exercised through aid, military support and hosting of major military bases. The nuclear weapons are also aimed at subduing rivalry with neighboring states so that total control can be exercised. The war in Iraq by the Bush administration was aimed at establishing a strong and supportive government that would safeguard American interests. The invasion shook the relationship with the world and called for an evaluation of policies regarding that region.

Escalating conflicts and the Arab spring have called for a rethinking of the handling of issues at the Persian Gulf. Russia is gaining a lot of influence in world issues and pulling some countries to its side. Syria presented a difficult test to America with the insufficiency of intervention by Obama administration highlighting loss of influence. The duration of the Syrian crisis has angered most countries allied to America.

Arab states are divided by the debate on nuclear technology as different countries in this area show their interest in developing such systems. Iraq signed a deal with America that has brought tension between states who consider the government as unstable. The never ending conflict between Palestine and Israel is a major test and determines relationships between any nation and the region.

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 threat posed by radical Iranian authority is affecting the current US foreign policy in the Middle East. Her interest in nuclear technology and involvement in terrorism are to blame. One of the most vocal nations in this regard is the Bahrain government that does not hide its displeasure. The ability of America to safeguard her interest and win new allies is being tested.




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