In a recent column for The New York Times, renowned columnist Thomas Friedman sheds light on what he dubs “The Biden Doctrine,” a comprehensive three-pronged strategy he believes President Joe Biden should pursue to navigate the complex dynamics of the Middle East. Friedman, known for his insights into U.S. politics and foreign policy, argues that this doctrine is crucial to prevent the regional crisis from escalating into a full-blown catastrophe.
1. Robust Stand on Iran
Friedman’s first pillar of the Biden Doctrine emphasizes a resolute stance on Iran, advocating for a robust military response against Iran’s proxies and agents in the region. This approach suggests a departure from previous strategies and underscores the need for assertive action to counter Iran’s influence in the Middle East.
2. Diplomatic Initiative for a Palestinian State
The second track in Friedman’s plan involves a diplomatic initiative by the United States to establish a Palestinian state urgently. Friedman emphasizes the critical importance of recognizing a demilitarized Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza. However, he underscores the condition that such recognition should only occur once Palestinians have developed credible institutions and security capabilities to ensure the viability of the state without posing a threat to Israel.
3. Strengthening the U.S.-Saudi Arabia Security Alliance
The third component of the Biden Doctrine focuses on an expanded security alliance between the United States and Saudi Arabia, including the normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel. Prior to the recent tensions, the two nations were progressing toward solidifying official ties. Friedman argues that it is time to revive and build upon these diplomatic efforts, despite the temporary setback caused by Saudi Arabia freezing the deal in response to recent events.
4. Challenging Iran and Netanyahu’s Strategies
Friedman contends that the Biden Doctrine is essential to challenging both Iran and the Netanyahu government’s strategies in the Middle East. He criticizes the tolerance of Iran’s actions that undermine constructive initiatives in the region and the Netanyahu government’s efforts to impede Palestinian statehood. He urges a decisive approach to call the bluffs of both Iran and Netanyahu, emphasizing the urgency of implementing the Biden Doctrine.
In conclusion, Thomas Friedman’s proposed Biden Doctrine for the Middle East presents a multifaceted strategy aimed at addressing the complex geopolitical landscape in the region. As the Biden administration grapples with the challenges in the Middle East, Friedman’s insights provide a framework for potential diplomatic and security initiatives to foster stability and avoid further escalation.
