Jacobin Radio Jacobin Radio: Trump’s Middle East Pivot w/ Juan Cole
7 snips
May 20, 2025 
Juan Cole, a leading historian from the University of Michigan and founder of Informed Comment, joins to dissect Trump's sweeping changes in Middle Eastern policy. They discuss how Trump has distanced himself from Israel while forging ties with Gulf monarchies. Cole highlights the chaos intertwined with billion-dollar deals and back-channel diplomacy in the region. The conversation also touches on the implications of U.S. sanctions on Syria, potential corruption in Trump's dealings, and the nuances of a shifting U.S. foreign policy landscape.
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Business Interests Drive Policy
- Trump's Middle East policy is driven more by personal business interests than ideological consistency.
- His family's financial ties in the Gulf heavily influence his diplomatic priorities.
Erratic Middle East Diplomacy
- Trump's Middle East stance is erratic and contradictory, often switching rapidly.
- He attempts direct deals with groups like Hamas, bypassing traditional partners like Netanyahu.
Peace Talk Without Pressure
- Trump's talks of peace in Gaza lack follow-through or real pressure on Israel.
- Economically, Israel offers little incentive compared to wealthy Gulf states or Iran.
