Chap 14 arc : In Depth Notes on US Foreign Policy in the Middle East

Overview of US Foreign Policy in the Middle East

This chapter reviews and analyzes US foreign policy in the Middle East, focusing on historical involvement, key motivations, and contemporary challenges.

Historical Context

• The US began engaging with the Middle East in the late 18th century.

• Initial relations were dominated by trade and missionary activity, not imperial ambitions like European powers.

• The King–Crane Commission (1919) indicated a preference for US governance over British and French colonialism.

• US involvement deepened post World War II, emphasizing three strategic interests: communism, oil, and Israeli security.

Key Motivations for US Policy

1. Containing Soviet Communism

• Post-WWII: US policies aimed to contain Soviet expansionism.

• 1947 Pentagon Meeting: US policymakers outlined a strategy to secure influence in the Middle East, transitioning from a supportive role of Britain to a leading role.

• Failure of Military Alliances: Initiatives like the Middle East Command and the Baghdad Pact failed due to regional animosities.

2. Securing Oil Supplies

• Post-war America required a steady oil supply to fuel its economy.

• The nationalization of Iran's oil in 1951 led to US intervention through Operation Ajax, restoring the Shah to power.

• The 1973 oil embargo by Arab nations during the Yom Kippur War showcased the significance of oil in geopolitical security.

3. Supporting Israel

• US support for Israel created tensions with Arab nations, exacerbating the Palestinian issue.

• The Six-Day War in 1967 and subsequent American positions on the Arab-Israeli peace process highlighted conflicting interests.

Development of US Foreign Policy Structures

The Role of the White House

• Presidents drive foreign policy, often articulated through doctrines (e.g., Eisenhower Doctrine, Carter Doctrine).

• Political constraints from public opinion shape decisions, particularly concerning military interventions.

Congressional Influence

• Congress holds significant power over foreign policy through funding, appointments, and treaty ratification.

• Bipartisan support for Israel remains a constant, even amid emerging partisan splits.

Lobbying and Interest Groups

• Various groups, notably the Israel lobby (AIPAC), influence US policy substantially, reinforcing support for Israel.

• Additionally, oil interests heavily lobby for policies that foster free trade and stability in the Middle East.

Post-9/11 Policy Shifts

Bush Administration (2001-2009)

• Global War on Terror mindset led to military interventions in Afghanistan and Iraq aimed at regime change.

• The invasion of Iraq, initially justified by false intelligence on WMDs, spiraled into prolonged conflict.

Obama Administration (2009-2017)

• Sought a shift from military interventions to engagement strategies, although military actions persisted (e.g., against ISIS).

• The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) negotiated with Iran aimed at curbing its nuclear program while promoting diplomacy and engagement.

Continuing Challenges

• Emerging from Bush and Obama’s legacies, challenges like the rise of extremist groups and Iran’s regional ambitions persist.

• The Biden Administration now grapples with these burdens while facing domestic pressures for policy restraint.

Conclusion

The US involvement in the Middle East has evolved from traditional interests in oil and security to a more complex interplay with regional politics, terrorism, and shifting global power dynamics. The ramifications of past policies continue to influence US engagement in the region today, with ongoing debates about the nature and scope of future commitments.