Author: Ahmad Mansoor
Trump is commencing his second term at a time when the U.S. is facing significant challenges. This time, it is not the world that requires concern, but rather the U.S. itself that must ponder, “What comes next?” as it engages in genuine competition with the East.
Before delving into the subject in depth, let us briefly recap the recent U.S. elections. It is an established fact that elections on a global scale are primarily a spectacle. Developed countries take them seriously in media and in practice to showcase their dedication to democracy, indicating that popular governance can arise in this manner.
In reality, the president is designated in advance, and public sentiment is covertly manipulated to accept it. The recent U.S. elections highlighted a distinct perspective and stance on issues related to women, despite professing to champion women’s rights and equality with men.
The question arises: why did candidate Kamala Harris not prevail? Previous male presidents have been tried and tested, with many political analysts theorizing that the U.S. is not prepared for a female leader, regardless of its assertions in the media.
Now, refocusing on the subject: How does Trump find himself Between the Storm and the Fire? Trump has made statements, both prior and subsequent to his victory, that could prove detrimental for him to either act upon or disregard. These statements encompass pledges to resolve conflicts in Palestine, Lebanon, and Ukraine, as well as reclaiming Bagram Air Base.
If he endeavors to resolve the Middle Eastern conflicts, it is evident that coercive measures have been ineffectual, thus requiring peaceful tactics to bring these disputes to an end. This would also pose a considerable challenge as Hamas seems unwilling to relinquish its rights, and Netanyahu would view any concession as a defeat.
Likewise, the Ukraine-Russia issue mirrors the Palestinian situation to a certain extent. Russia is unwilling to withdraw from Ukraine as it would diminish its position, and Ukraine remains steadfast in its defensive stance. One potential resolution to the Ukraine-Russia conflict could be for the U.S. to cease all assistance to Ukraine.
In essence, these issues present formidable complexities for the U.S., with inevitable defeats looming in both scenarios. Failure in one aspect would likely lead to setbacks in the other.
The Assertion to Retake Bagram
Before delving into this, it is pertinent to mention that Afghanistan’s Islamic Emirate has reemerged with greater military, political, and cultural strength. Its balanced political strategy has persuaded the region that stability and progress stem from mutual collaboration and economic policies. Should Trump choose to act upon his campaign vow to retake Bagram, he would encounter two significant repercussions:
1. It would contravene the Doha Agreement, tarnishing the U.S.’s international reputation and reinforcing the perception of its unreliability.
2. This decision would bolster the Eastern bloc.
Fugitive republicans suggest Trump may terminate the $40 million monthly aid to Afghanistan. However, such a move would result in repercussions for the U.S., as it would validate suspicions that its humanitarian proclamations are merely symbolic.
If indeed this aid is directed towards the Taliban, as posited by fugitive republicans, then the American government would face substantial backlash from its populace. Nonetheless, suspending these funds would not impact the Islamic Emirate as significantly as its adversaries anticipate; rather, it would bolster support for America’s opposition bloc.
In conclusion, Afghanistan’s Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has gleaned valuable lessons from the past. Its judicious policies, astute political maneuvering, and effective dialogues have countered its adversaries’ strategies, while the U.S. is steering its military strategies towards ruin. Hence, it is reasonable to assert that in the current scenario, Trump/the U.S. finds themselves Between the Storm and the Fire, a predicament that may culminate in their downfall.
