President Joe Biden and his aides have come under fire recently for courting allies who have undermined U.S. goals and values. This has raised questions about the administration’s approach to foreign policy and its commitment to upholding democratic principles.
One of the most notable examples of this trend is the Biden administration’s close relationship with Saudi Arabia, despite the kingdom’s abysmal human rights record and its role in the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The administration has continued to sell weapons to Saudi Arabia and provide military support for its war in Yemen, despite widespread criticism from human rights organizations and lawmakers.
Similarly, the Biden administration has faced criticism for its relationship with Egypt, which has been accused of widespread human rights abuses under President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. Despite these concerns, the administration has continued to provide military aid to Egypt and maintain close diplomatic ties with the regime.
Critics argue that by cozying up to these authoritarian regimes, the Biden administration is undermining its own values and goals, and sending a message that human rights abuses will be tolerated as long as a country is seen as a strategic ally.
In response to these criticisms, the Biden administration has defended its approach, arguing that engaging with these allies is necessary to advance U.S. interests and promote stability in the region. They have also pointed to efforts to push for reforms and improvements in human rights practices in these countries.
However, many observers remain skeptical of this justification, pointing out that the administration’s actions seem to prioritize short-term strategic interests over long-term values and principles. They argue that by turning a blind eye to human rights abuses and authoritarian practices, the U.S. is sacrificing its moral authority and credibility on the global stage.
Moving forward, it will be crucial for the Biden administration to strike a balance between pursuing strategic interests and upholding democratic values. This will require a more nuanced and principled approach to foreign policy that takes into account the broader implications of engaging with allies who undermine U.S. goals. Only by standing firm on its values and principles can the U.S. hope to regain its moral authority and influence in the world.
