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Biden’s Middle East Mirage: Good Intentions Lost in Translation

James Paek
3 min readOct 21, 2023

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As the Biden administration navigates the tumultuous waters of Middle East diplomacy, its approach, particularly towards the Israel-Palestine conflict, leaves much to be desired. The hallmark of any effective foreign policy is its adaptability to the evolving geopolitical landscape, a trait seemingly lost in translation in Biden’s policy playbook. Despite a storied political career, the President’s handling of the Middle East reflects a disconcerting blend of outdated diplomacy and wishful thinking.

Biden’s venture into the Middle East was showcased through a one-day visit to Israel, a gesture aimed at demonstrating support amidst the brutal attacks by Hamas. While the intent was also to prevent a larger conflict that could derail U.S.’ broader foreign policy objectives, the visit echoed a familiar, yet outdated, tune of diplomacy​.

Biden meeting with Israel Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu

Critics argue that Biden’s Middle East policy, notably his stance on the Israel-Palestine issue, leans heavily on wishful thinking. His continuous advocacy for the “two-state solution” as a remedy to the decades-old conflict, without substantial diplomatic action, reflects a detachment from the evolving geopolitical realities of the region. The administration’s approach, couched in yesteryears’ diplomatic tropes, fails to acknowledge the changed dynamics on the ground, particularly…

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James Paek
James Paek

Written by James Paek

James Paek is an expert writer on a diverse range of subjects including SDGs, global issues, policy, criminal justice, economy, and other topics.

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