US Ambassador Affirms Central Role of US in Middle Eastern Policy, 3 OCT
Despite the shift in foreign policy focus under President Joe Biden’s administration, the United States continues to maintain a central role in Middle Eastern policy, as emphasized by US Ambassador to the UAE, Martina Strong. The ambassador’s recent discussion with reporter Dan Murphy highlighted the US’s commitment to its diplomatic relations and strategic interests in the region, notwithstanding the change in priorities at the White House.
Phase One: Attempted Rebalance
Unlike his predecessors, President Biden did not place a high priority on the Middle East in his overall foreign policy. Entering office in January 2021, Biden was propelled by pressing domestic issues, primarily the COVID-19 pandemic and the resultant economic crisis. Consequently, the early days of Biden’s presidency were largely focused on managing the home front, re-engaging allies and partners in Asia and Europe, responding to the rise of China, and tackling climate change.
However, the Middle East, a region fraught with political instability, religious conflicts, and economic challenges, could not be entirely sidelined. Despite the administration’s initial approach of reducing over commitment in the region, the geopolitical significance of the Middle East necessitated a continued US presence and involvement.
Ruthless Pragmatism in Middle East Policy
The Biden administration’s Middle East policy has been characterized as one of ‘ruthless pragmatism.’ This approach involved maintaining a diplomatic distance while avoiding overextension in the region. Examples of this stance can be seen in the administration’s passive approach to Syria and its limited engagement with Iraq, despite the multiple security predicaments and political turmoil in these countries.
Despite the criticism directed at the administration for doing either too much or too little, the US maintained its commitment to safeguarding its interests in the region. This included appointing special envoys for Yemen, Libya, and the Horn of Africa, reengaging Iran in international talks on its nuclear program, and expressing a general desire to deescalate tensions in the region.
Guarding Against Overextension
The Biden administration sought to guard against the deep levels of engagement that had at times overwhelmed previous administrations. This included checking the military presence in the region and refraining from over-promising and under-delivering in terms of policy commitments.
In this context, the administration focused on fostering relationships with regional partners and allies, emphasizing a commitment to Israel’s security, deterring Iranian aggression, and disrupting the Islamic State. These efforts were aimed at maintaining stability in the region while ensuring that the US’s strategic interests were upheld.
A Continued Central Role
The reaffirmation of the US’s central role in Middle Eastern policy by Ambassador Martina Strong underscores the continued significance of the region in global geopolitics. Despite the shift in foreign policy focus under the Biden administration, the US will continue to engage in the region, albeit with a more pragmatic and cautious approach. The commitment to maintaining stability, fostering diplomatic relations, and upholding strategic interests in the Middle East remains a key aspect of US foreign policy.
