Tarz Press: The Middle East Institute (MEI) think tank has analyzed the Middle East policies of two prominent figures, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, to clarify the differences and potential consequences of each approach. This report compares their policies, highlighting how each could shape the future of US-Middle East relations. Harris tends to follow President Biden’s current trajectory, while Trump seeks to continue the policies from his first term.
Approaching Elections and Intense Political Competition
As the U.S. presidential elections draw near, competition between the two major parties, Democrats and Republicans, has intensified. According to the latest polls, including reports from The Economist and The Hill, Trump has a higher chance of winning the election. If victorious, he will likely pursue his previous approach with a renewed focus on advancing U.S. interests in the Middle East. This possibility has led analysts to examine the candidates’ policies more closely.
Kamala Harris’ Policies: Continuing Biden’s Path
MEI outlines the key priorities in Harris’ policies. She appears inclined to maintain Biden’s broader approach, focusing on cooperation with U.S. allies to limit the influence of countries such as Russia, China, and Iran. In the Middle East, her strategy centers on reducing Iran’s regional influence and supporting U.S.-aligned governments.
On the Israel-Palestine issue, Harris supports a two-state solution, advocating mutual respect and a halt to Israeli settlement expansions, while still recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and emphasizing the importance of religious access to holy sites. Additionally, she would continue providing humanitarian aid to Palestinians, contingent on compliance with U.S. laws.
Donald Trump’s Policies: Economic Deals and Securing Israel
During his first term, Trump adopted a “maximum pressure” policy against Iran, leveraging economic and political sanctions. MEI predicts that if reelected, Trump would continue this approach, potentially intensifying it to strengthen U.S. influence in the region.
Trump’s focus on forming new economic and diplomatic ties includes maintaining close relations with Saudi Arabia and Israel as key priorities in the Middle East. He would likely aim to replicate agreements similar to the 2020 Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations. In his policy, human rights and democracy rank lower in priority.
Conclusion
Kamala Harris and Donald Trump present contrasting visions for U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, each offering distinct paths. While Harris emphasizes multilateral cooperation and human rights, Trump prioritizes economic engagement and security, focusing on countries that can advance U.S. interests. The outcome of the upcoming election will determine which path will shape the future of U.S. relations with the Middle East.
