The Road to Smart Power in the Middle East

Published September 30, 2021

Despite public reluctance, the United States must remain engaged in the Middle East. Chinese expansion, Russian intrusion, and Iranian proxy wars threaten the region with imminent disaster. By taking steps to push back against these forces, the United States can promote the freedom of the people in the Middle East as well as American national interests.

Discussion Questions:

1. How do China, Russia, and Iran threaten the freedom of people in the Middle East?
2. What are some challenges to US involvement in the Middle East?

Additional Resources:

• Read “Promoting Human Rights Abroad, Defending Them at Home,” by Russell Berman via The Caravan. Available here.
• Read “The Mideast, with No Illusions,” by Russell Berman via the Hoover Digest. Available here.
• Read “The Iranian Nuclear Deal Needs to Be Fixed and Rewritten, Not Just Revived,” by Russell Berman via The Hill. Available here.