Closing Reflections on Civil Debate and Engagement

The U.S. has long balanced military strength with soft power in the Middle East through agencies like USAID. With the Trump administration reversing these policies, is this a necessary realignment—or a costly retreat? Those against these changes argue this will boost rivals like Iran and China and harm America’s image. Those hailing them argue it’s a necessary correction, favoring clear, transactional geopolitical goals over costly diplomacy. Now we debate: Was Trump Right to Be Hard on Soft Power in the Middle East? 

Arguing Yes: Faisal Saeed Al Mutar, President & Founder of Ideas Beyond Borders  

Arguing No: Jeffrey Gedmin, President & CEO of the Middle East Broadcasting Networks 

Xenia Wickett, Geopolitical strategist, moderator at Wickett Advisory, and Trustee of Transparency International UK, is the guest moderator. 

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