Theory

The issue of Middle East politics and foreign policy has two main polarized sides. There is the Neoconservative approach and the Liberal approach. Here is a description of each point of view:

1. Neoconservative approach- want to protect US interests by any means possible, Tend to be more militaristic in nature, Examples are Bush and McCain’s approach to the Middle East, which includes the Bush Doctrine established after September 11th. (mostly Republicans)

2. The Liberal approach uses more diplomacy and US soft power as a way to protect US interests in the Middle East, Aid through food, medicine and weapons for allies, Negotiations rather than bombings.(mostly democrats)

Solution: The only way to clearly understand the best solution to protecting our interests in the Middle East is to understand the history of conflicts, religion, and culture in the Middle East. Also experiencing the culture and ethics of the Middle East by living in the region will enhance decision making skills. We must come up with a balanced solution that would both benefit us and the Middle East. We must increase US support in the region and deter terrorist recruitment by providing aid such as food and medicine. Improving American legitimacy will improve America’s ability to protect its interests.

In Iraq, we must slowly transfer power to the Iraqi government and withdraw over an extended period of time depending on the readiness of Iraqi troops to protect their citizens, border, and maintain stability. A small US force should remain in Iraq to train troops and the US should invest in soft diplomacy by sending food and aid to the people.

In Iran, we must engage in direct negotiation at the highest level in order to come up with a solution beneficial to both US and Iran. The best solution would be one in which Iran will attain nuclear energy that it requires, but does not have the capability to create a weapon. Also the US should support reformers in Iran that want to make the country more moderate.

The Israeli and Palestinian conflict is by far the hardest conflict to offer a solution to. I believe that the only solution to this problem is to focus on the younger generation citizens in the area. We must stop the appeal to extremism on both sides and the best way to do this is to educate the youth so that they are tolerant.