THE remarkable return of Donald Trump to the White House is not merely a continuation of his previous presidential term but rather a clear signal of a shift in the outlook of American citizens.
His victory announcement sent economic and financial indicators soaring, reflecting optimism on the local front. Internationally, the Middle East also has a large stake in this victory. The region already tested Trump during his first term and understands his approach. His previous administration sought to ease tensions while maintaining firmness on certain issues.
Trump had already been aware of the implications for American strategic interests if the two previous presidents - Obama and Biden - had pursued policies that exacerbated conflicts in the Middle East in an attempt to bring about radical changes that conflicted with the region’s cultural, social, political, and economic realities.
There is no doubt that the Middle East entered a dark tunnel since 2010 under two consecutive Democratic administrations. It was marked by bloodshed, destruction, deliberate impoverishment, and the imposition of visions that the Arab World, particularly the Gulf states, could not accept.
In response to this, Trump’s first presidency focused on undoing the damage caused by the Democratic administrations, particularly their destabilizing influence in the region, including the creation of ISIS and the strengthening of the terrorist axis.
This axis, from the Houthi militia in Yemen to sectarian militias in Iraq and Hezbollah in Lebanon, fueled instability and fanned the flames of conflict in every Arab country without exception.
The first Trump administration played a pivotal role as a peacemaker, curbed terrorism and prevented the strengthening of “axis of evil” countries, particularly by blocking their path to nuclear capabilities.
This was especially true with Iran, which benefited from the nuclear agreement brokered by Obama. The deal released billions of dollars to Iran, which were then used to support sectarian militias and obstruct the prospects for lasting peace in the Middle East.
The damage caused by Democratic administrations is perhaps best illustrated in the memoirs of Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, and Bill Clinton.
If this is the state of the Middle East during the eras of Obama and Biden, the United States itself was not spared from economic and social devastation. In addition, these administrations inadvertently fueled the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which escalated to the point of threatening global peace, particularly when the rhetoric around a potential Third World War and the use of nuclear weapons intensified.
In this context and in all honesty, the Arab world and the Middle East were delighted with the victory of President Donald Trump for a second term.
The current occupant of the White House realizes today that there is no lasting solution for the region except by curbing the influence of certain evil nations without resorting to war, as well as returning to a firm, strategic policy - one that avoids bloodshed and destruction, but is rooted in sound principles. This is a vision that Arab countries, especially the Gulf states, have long hoped for.
There is no doubt that everyone in the region longs to see the America of George Washington, James Madison, John Adams, Abraham Lincoln, and Dwight Eisenhower. These are leaders who helped build this great nation, which is known for its unwavering commitment to freedom and democracy.
Welcome to the leader of the “new-old” White House, from whom the Middle East hopes for the restoration of strong relations and tireless efforts to bring peace to the region.
