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What a Difference a President Makes

WillowSpring
@WillowSpring
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The ConservativeTreehouse - which I have come to like more and more, provided a link to President Trump's speech in Riyadh in 2017. I think this may have been one of his first overseas speeches and formed the framework for the Abraham Accords. The speech is 30 minutes long, but is followed by a transcript if you want to skim that.

In my lifetime (I'm now 76), I think this is the best description of a coherent policy for America in the Middle East. It is not at all mealy-mouthed, calling Iran out by name for its role in terrorism in the region. Unlike our current President, it is clear what he is saying, including the role the powers in the area must take. Unlike earlier Presidents, there is no talk of "Bringing Democracy" -- Trump is explicit that he doesn't intend to change the region to match us, only to contain the terrorism. He holds out the carrot of increasing prosperity in the area.

The one thing not mentioned is the financial windfall to Iran (and other enemies) that our refusal to use our own oil has caused. As I heard the other day, it is sort of like guns: "If the good guys don't drill for oil, only the bad guys will drill for oil."

This post was promoted to the Main Feed at the recommendation of Ricochet's members.

Discussion (2)

  • Gossamer Cat@GossamerCat

    Wow. I did not listen to the speech back then, but it is extraordinarily powerful and clear-headed. This was Trump at his best and it once again makes me regret bitterly the Russian Hoax, the pandemic and the rewriting of election rules that led directly to January 6th and that moron in the White House.

    "Terrorism has spread across the world. But the path to peace begins right here, on this ancient soil, in this sacred land.

    America is prepared to stand with you – in pursuit of shared interests and common security.

    But the nations of the Middle East cannot wait for American power to crush this enemy for them. The nations of the Middle East will have to decide what kind of future they want for themselves, for their countries, and for their children.

    It is a choice between two futures – and it is a choice America CANNOT make for you."