When the United States shies away from international leadership, other actors, often with hostile intent, fill that void.
In his inaugural address, President Joe Biden spoke eloquently of « an American story of hope…. The story that tells ages yet to come that we answered the call of history…. That our America secured liberty at home and stood once again as a beacon to the world. » In his February 4 speech at the State Department, the leader of the free world added: « America is back. Diplomacy is back at the center of our foreign policy. » President Biden went on to emphasize: « America’s alliances are our greatest asset, and leading with diplomacy means standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our allies. » For Bahrain–a country of 1.5 million people situated perilously in the Arabian Gulf–these were welcomed words. When the world’s preeminent superpower retreats from the global stage, concerns rise in countries such as mine. To advocate « America First » makes sense: The interests of the American people should always be the top priority of its elected officials. « America Alone, » however, alarms allies and emboldens adversaries. The world is a dangerous place for freedom-loving peoples. Aggressive ideological and revanchist regimes seek political and economic domination. Nations living in rough areas face a stark choice: either accommodate and submit or brave the rough seas and remain true to one’s values and friends. Our security and prosperity depend on strong, principled American leadership. Bahrain’s efforts to promote regional peace and prosperity take inspiration from America’s example of openness, tolerance and justice.
