The sudden fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has raised questions about the US policy divide between the Biden and Trump administrations in the Middle East. In a pre-emptive move, President Joe Biden vowed to continue US engagement in Syria despite Assad’s departure, while Trump has taken a more isolationist stance.
Biden’s decision to maintain a strong presence in Syria is seen as crucial in addressing emerging terrorism threats. The US has already carried out dozens of strikes against ISIS sites in the region. However, Trump’s team may face internal competition on how quickly to pull out US forces from eastern Syria.
Some analysts believe that Trump’s administration may abandon the counterterrorism mission, citing other regional assets can address international terrorism threats. Others argue that pulling troops out could lead to blame and increased terrorism, making it a less desirable option.
The policy divide exposes concerns about lost opportunities for addressing key Middle East challenges, including Iran’s nuclear program. Diplomats and former officials warn that the transition from a more interventionist to an isolationist approach could mean missing chances to address critical regional issues.
As Trump’s administration grapples with its stance on Syria, experts stress the need for close consultations with partners in the region to avoid missteps or major surprises. A diplomatic presence established on the ground is seen as essential to navigating these complex challenges.
The situation highlights a potential “fight” within Trump’s mind over policy direction, with some arguing that a more aggressive approach against Iran and its nuclear program could be necessary. However, others caution that pulling out troops from Syria could have unintended consequences and lead to increased terrorism.
Source: https://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Foreign-Policy/2024/1211/syria-trump-biden-isis-iran-mideast