Publication Details
Abstract
The article examines the changes in U.S. policy toward the Middle East under Trump, describing them as a transition from a liberal approach to a utilitarian "pragmatic realism" under the banner "America First." This policy focused on the direct exchange of interests and the marginalization of democratic values, which led to a diplomatic rupture in the form of a total alignment with Israel through the relocation of the embassy and the Abraham Accords, prevailing over Palestinian rights. In the security arena, Trump has adopted a strategy of "maximum pressure" and sanctions against Iran, while avoiding a direct military confrontation. Despite tactical advances, this approach has eroded confidence in the U.S. role, increased regional polarization, and opened the way for rival powers such as China and Russia, amid the Biden administration's attempts to return to diplomatic multilateralism.