There is an ongoing debate in America over the Trump Administration’s foreign policy. Scholars and analysts are seriously pondering over the grave situation the country is facing at an international level, which is, American retreat. Donald Trump became president of the world’s strongest country with the slogan, ‘America first’.
His intentions were already unambiguous in regard to certain decisions that he would make at the international level that would cause damage to America. The construction of a wall alongside the Mexican border and getting rid of illegal foreigners were his top priority.
In recent years, America had to face retreat when Russia brusquely took part in the Syrian crisis and challenged American dominance in the Middle East. China also joined in and both of them vetoed the American-backed resolution to attack on Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria many times. This in actuality challenged American authority in the region. America was left with no other option other than retreat.
More recently, the rejection of the US’ decision to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel indicates without a doubt that its influence is receding even from the countries that are major recipients of its economic aid. 35 abstentions were observed in the General Assembly while 128 voted in favour of the resolution rescinding to recognise Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. 9 member states voted against it and 21 did not participate. The UN envoy from Palestine declared it a ‘massive setback’ for America.
The rejection of the US’ decision to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel indicates without a doubt that its influence is receding even from the countries that are major recipients of its economic aid
It is evident that American sway at the international arena is dropping at a rapid pace. The world is turning into a multi-polar one with the rise of China and Russia. The part that they are playing in the war in Syria and then in not accepting the Trump’s decision to shift the capital of Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem are a clear indication that American authority is being challenged.
The third world countries that have remained under American influence especially after World War II now have more options. From the second half of the twentieth century till the selection of Trump, things principally remained in favour of America — its role in various events can be disputed but the reality is there was no one that could challenge it.
Factually speaking, Americans at home are not content with Trump’s policies. After his incumbency to the presidency, the streets were flooded with protestors. His jingoistic designs were believed to be the grounds of in-house harms.
Moreover, Europeans, who remained close to America whenever it was about supporting its policies around the world, are also showing their contempt towards the new government in Washington. EU immediately after Trump’s announcement of recognising Jerusalem as the capital of Israel showed its displeasure and expressed its belief that the decision would shatter peace in the region.
Modifications in America foreign policy affect the entire world. It is better to form strategies that are productive for the world at large. Opting Jerusalem as the capital of Israel was disliked by the majority, and they showed their reaction during the vote that was held earlier this month.
The US should play a constructive role in bringing peace and cohesion among different countries rather than dividing them and testing their loyalty in consideration of financial aid. Doing this is only possible when the US considers the aspirations of the international community before it pushes its own agenda.
At this point in time, a stable and sympathetic America is needed for a secure world. If it remains baffled and assertive America will cause more damage to the whole world and to Americans themselves. The Trump administration must take a course of action that is productive and lucrative for all.
The writer is a professional writer and political commentator. He can be contacted @junaidalimalik1 or [email protected]
Published in Daily Times, December 28th 2017.