A tenure marred by diplomatic blunders, miscalculations …. Majid Burfat

Joe Biden’s unexpected decision not to seek re-election has reverberated through the global political landscape, fundamentally altering perceptions and strategies among foreign leaders and diplomats. With six months remaining in his presidency, Biden’s announcement may appear to offer a strategic opportunity for the Democratic Party to regroup. However, the reality is that his tenure has been marred by significant blunders and miscalculations that have exacerbated global disputes and strained international relations.

Biden’s withdrawal from the race is more than just a personal choice; it is a reflection of his administration’s inability to effectively manage the multitude of crises that have unfolded under his watch. His foreign policy has been fraught with errors that have ignited and intensified global conflicts rather than resolving them. The Biden administration’s handling of NATO and the Ukraine-Russia war stands as a stark example of this mismanagement. Instead of mitigating tensions, Biden’s approach has aggravated the situation, failing to craft a strategy that balances support for Ukraine with diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict with Russia.

The situation in the Middle East further underscores the failures of Biden’s foreign policy. His administration’s response to the Israel-Palestine conflict, which has seen more than 40,000 innocent lives lost, has been nothing short of disastrous. Biden’s vocal support for ceasefires, while noble in intent, has not translated into effective action on the ground. The devastation in Gaza and the ongoing humanitarian crisis reflect a broader pattern of missteps and ineffective diplomacy that have only deepened regional turmoil.

The Biden administration’s stance on China has been equally problematic. By labeling China as an enabler in the Ukraine-Russia conflict and pursuing a confrontational approach, Biden has exacerbated tensions with one of the world’s most significant geopolitical players. This strategy has not only strained US-China relations but has also contributed to global economic instability, with trade disputes and supply chain disruptions impacting economies worldwide.

Kori Schake, director of foreign and defense policy studies at the American Enterprise Institute and a former national security council and state department official during the George W Bush administration, noted that Biden’s announcement might suggest an opportunity for policy continuity. However, this continuity is hardly a reassuring prospect for the international community. Foreign leaders, who had been bracing themselves for the potential disruptions under a Trump administration, might now view Biden’s departure as a chance to realign their strategies away from the chaos that has characterised his presidency.

In the immediate term, Biden’s administration must navigate ongoing foreign policy challenges with the same strategic foresight that has been lacking throughout his tenure. Netanyahu’s visit is emblematic of the complex diplomatic engagements that require effective handling. Yet, the situation with Israel and Hamas continues to spiral, highlighting Biden’s failure to provide a coherent strategy for peace and stability in the region. His preference for diplomacy over military action, while commendable in principle, has often failed to produce tangible results.

The international community’s reaction to Biden’s decision will be crucial. While initial responses might include praise and expressions of gratitude, the true measure of success will be how global leaders adapt to the shifting dynamics of US policy. The geopolitical landscape remains volatile, and Biden’s departure introduces a new layer of uncertainty. European leaders, in particular, will need to navigate this transition carefully, balancing their engagements with both Democratic and Republican stakeholders to safeguard their interests and ensure continued collaboration on critical issues like climate change, security and trade.

The Democratic Party’s internal dynamics also warrant close attention. Biden’s withdrawal triggers a potentially contentious primary season, where various factions will vie for dominance. The party’s ability to unite around a candidate who can address Biden’s failures while bringing fresh perspectives will be crucial. Kamala Harris, as Biden’s chosen successor, will face the challenge of demonstrating her capability to lead effectively and offer a vision that resonates with both domestic and international audiences.

In conclusion, Joe Biden’s decision not to seek re-election highlights a presidency marked by significant foreign policy blunders and miscalculations. His tenure has been characterised by escalating global disputes, ineffective responses to crises, and strained international relationships. As the world watches closely, the next six months will be pivotal in determining whether a new leader can address the shortcomings of Biden’s administration and steer the United States toward a more stable and effective foreign policy. The stakes for international stability and cooperation could not be higher, and the need for a recalibrated approach has never been more urgent.

Courtesy Express Tribune