Why it matters:
The US is worried about Iran's role in the region as it has consecutively thwarted its plots in the West Asian region as, for example, the very Donald Trump ordered the assassination of the steadfast anti-terrorism figure Lt. Gen. Qasem Soleimani who defeated the US proxy in the region, Daesh.
The big picture:
Trump administration's policy towards West Asia, including Iran, is characterized by a combination of economic pressure, military strength, and diplomatic efforts to counter Iran as a country that is gaining power and is decisive in bringing the regional countries to independence including ensuring the endogenous security that is trying to stop the Israeli regime's expansionism and warmongering.
State of play:
Trump has adopted a Secretary of State in his cabinet that aligns with his policies toward Iran, Marco Rubio, a former U.S. Senator from Florida.
- Rubio's hardline rhetoric is likely to exacerbate US-Iran tensions.
- His support for US allies in West Asia, particularly Israel, could lead to heightened regional instability.
- Rubio has been equivocal about Iran's nuclear program, which may result in improvising stricter sanctions on Iran.
- He has been a staunch advocate for Israel that has killed more than 46,000 people in Gaza during the past 15 months.
Zoom in:
From Iran's perspective, Rubio's appointment is a part of a larger strategy aimed at diminishing Iran's regional influence as Iran's policy focuses on promoting cooperation among the regional countries rather than relying on foreign interventions.
- Regional dialogue through proposing forums like the "West Asia Dialogue Forum" to foster peace through mutual understanding.
- Developing political, security, and economic relations with neighboring countries.
- Support for self-determination by encouraging regional nations to oppose foreign intervention.
- Advocating for resolving conflicts through intra-regional dialogue and negotiation.
- Strengthening economic ties with regional countries to reduce dependence on external powers.
What they are saying:
- Bob McNally, energy adviser to former President George W. Bush, says Rubio will zealously implement President-elect Trump's plans to exert pressure on Iran's crude exports, nearly all of which go to China.
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Joze Pelayo from the Atlantic Council notes that Rubio's approach is likely to be tough on Iran, supportive of Israel, and focused on expanding U.S. influence and partnerships in the region.
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Holly Ellyatt from CNBC points out that Rubio is considered a foreign policy hawk, highly critical of Iran, and his assertive position on foreign policy matters could ease concerns among U.S. allies.
Go deeper:
The US is criticized always for its interventionist policies in the world's countries, both inside the US and outside of it, as it observed extensive sit-ins and protests in its universities due to its support for the Israeli genocidal war on Gaza.
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Mohammad Kazemi
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