How Biden and Obama Failed in the Middle East

 Victor Davis Hanson discusses the shortcomings of the Obama and Biden administrations in handling Middle East relations, comparing their approach to that of the Trump administration, which he argues was more effective. He highlights various strategies that the previous Democratic administrations employed, which he believes undermined U. S. interests and peace in the region.

1. Iran's Empowerment: Both administrations allowed Iran to benefit financially from oil sales and did not effectively curb its nuclear ambitions, leading to increased threats against Israel from Iranian-sponsored groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.

2. Pressure on Israel: Obama and Biden pressured Israel for concessions without providing sufficient security assurances, creating an impression of U. S. weakness and failure to support its allies effectively.

3. Personal Relationships: The Democratic administrations displayed contempt for key Middle Eastern leaders, like Benjamin Netanyahu and Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. This resulted in strained relationships, undermining potential alliances.

4. Reluctance to Use Force: There was a hesitance to take military action against terrorism. In contrast, Trump’s administration took decisive actions against terrorist leaders, which enhanced trust among regional partners.

5. Perception of American Decline: Global actions during Obama's and Biden's terms, such as the mismanagement of international crises and the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, led many in the Middle East to view the U. S. as a declining power.

6. Domestic Political Constraints: Both Obama and Biden faced pressure from progressive factions within their party, which limited their ability to make bold decisions regarding Israel and military action in the region.

7. Diplomatic Missteps: The administration’s diplomatic approach was criticized for lacking genuine connection with Arab and Israeli interests, leading to distrust.

8. Credibility of Threats: Obama’s and Biden’s “redlines” and threats were often perceived as empty, while Trump’s threats were taken seriously, reflecting a difference in perceived resolve.

9. Handling of Qatar: Trump utilized both incentives and deterrents in dealing with Qatar effectively, whereas previous administrations were seen as ineffective in managing relations with the country.

10. Advisory Roles: The effectiveness of Trump’s foreign policy was bolstered by a different team of advisors, contrasting with the Democratic administrations which some believe were naive and incompetent.

Hanson concludes that the Obama and Biden administrations’ policies in the Middle East were ineffective due to their appeasement strategies, strained relationships with allies, reluctance to take decisive military actions, and a lack of genuine diplomacy. In contrast, he believes that Trump's administration fostered better relationships and greater peace potential through a more assertive and reciprocal approach. The overall assessment suggests that to improve U. S. standing and effectiveness in the Middle East, future administrations must learn from these past mistakes. 

https://amgreatness.com/2025/10/16/how-biden-and-obama-failed-in-the-middle-east/