The End of Neoconservatism

President Donald Trump has announced a significant shift in American foreign policy, stating the end of neoconservatism that has historically guided the U. S. in the Middle East. This change follows decades marked by military interventions and failures.

• Trump declared a victory over neoconservative foreign policy, claiming it has caused more harm than good over the past thirty years.

• He indicated that the U. S. is no longer engaged in active military conflicts in the Middle East, marking a shift from past interventions.

• In a recent speech in Riyadh, he criticized past nation-building efforts, stating, “the so-called nation builders wrecked far more nations than they built. ”

• Trump has facilitated a ceasefire in Yemen and plans to withdraw troops from Syria, which showcases a notable departure from previous administrations' strategies.

• The first American president in 25 years, Trump has initiated discussions with Syria and aims to negotiate a new nuclear deal with Iran.

• Historical background includes U. S. support for Saddam Hussein, military invasions in Iraq and Afghanistan post-9/11, and a failed nation-building agenda that resulted in widespread violence and displacement.

• According to the Costs of War Project, American foreign policy in the last few decades has led to the direct death of around 940,000 people, with a total estimated death toll of 4.5 to 4.7 million when considering indirect consequences of these wars.

• Additionally, conflicts have displaced approximately 38 million people, and U. S. military operations have cost over $8 trillion.

• Trump’s foreign policy approach emphasizes pragmatic solutions over ideological commitments to democracy and human rights.

• Future goals include persuading Saudi Arabia to recognize Israel and obtaining commitment from Syria to sever ties with Iran while working towards regional stability.

The Trump administration marks a distinct realignment in U. S. foreign policy, moving away from the neoconservative model that led to prolonged conflicts in the Middle East. The upcoming negotiations with Syria and Iran, alongside calls for regional cooperation, represent potential new pathways for American diplomacy. While there are many challenges ahead, Trump's willingness to engage with former adversaries indicates a desire for pragmatic solutions to longstanding issues in a volatile region. 

https://www.theamericanconservative.com/the-end-of-neoconservatism/