US Foreign Policy: Towards Middle East (2018-2023)
Authors: Mehreen Yaseen  , Sadaf Ghayoor  , Musaiab ul Hassan Shakir  , Iqra Zafar  
Published: December 2024

This research provides a comprehensive analysis of U.S. foreign policy towards the Middle East from 2018 to 2023, a period marked by significant geopolitical transformations and evolving challenges in the region. The U.S. has long held a complex and multifaceted relationship with the Middle East, influenced by historical legacies, economic interests, and security concerns. This study aims to dissect the strategic decisions made by the U.S. government during this timeframe, focusing on the implications of these policies for regional stability, security dynamics, and the broader U.S. geopolitical agenda. The research begins by outlining the context of U.S. foreign policy at the beginning of 2018, highlighting key events that shaped the administration's approach. The analysis includes the impact of the Trump administration's withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) and its subsequent "maximum pressure" campaign, which sought to curtail Iran's nuclear ambitions and regional influence. This decision had profound implications for U.S. relations with both allies and adversaries in the region, raising questions about the effectiveness of unilateral sanctions and their consequences for regional security. In addition, the research explores the U.S. response to the ongoing humanitarian crises in Syria and Yemen, examining how American foreign policy addressed these conflicts amidst growing international scrutiny. The study assesses the effectiveness of U.S. military involvement and humanitarian aid initiatives, highlighting the complexities of intervention in civil wars where multiple factions and external powers are involved. The implications of these crises for U.S. credibility and influence in the Middle East are critically analyzed. Another key focus of this research is the evolving dynamics of U.S.-Iran relations. The period under review saw increasing tensions, culminating in significant military engagements and diplomatic standoffs. The analysis delves into how these developments affected U.S. relations with other regional powers, particularly Saudi Arabia and Israel, and examines the role of these countries in shaping U.S. policy decisions. The intricate balance of power in the Middle East, influenced by sectarian divides and historical rivalries, is explored to understand the broader implications of U.S. actions. Furthermore, the research highlights the normalization agreements known as the Abraham Accords, which were established in 2020 between Israel and several Arab states. This section investigates how these agreements reflected a shift in U.S. foreign policy priorities and regional alliances. The analysis discusses the potential long-term effects of these accords on Arab-Israeli relations and the Palestinian issue, assessing whether these agreements could lead to a more stable regional order or further entrench divisions. To ensure a thorough understanding of U.S. foreign policy during this period, the research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative analyses. It utilizes a comprehensive review of governmental documents, academic literature, and expert opinions, providing a robust foundation for the study's conclusions. The examination of public statements, policy briefs, and diplomatic communications serves to illuminate the strategic priorities and rationale behind U.S. decisions. Ultimately, this research argues that U.S. foreign policy towards the Middle East from 2018 to 2023 has been characterized by a reactive rather than a proactive approach, often influenced by domestic political considerations and the complexities of regional dynamics. The findings underscore the challenges of maintaining U.S. influence in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, where traditional alliances are tested, and new power dynamics emerge.