Tom Stevenson & Tariq Ali discuss the myth of Britain as a global player and its subservience to the United States. They delve into topics such as Britain's relationship with the US, the actions of Israel and the US in Gaza and Iraq, the geopolitical importance of the Persian Gulf, and the decline of the British Empire. They also touch on foreign policy, the American decline, and domestic politics in the US.
The podcast highlights the long-lasting impact of the United States on the Middle East region and emphasizes the importance of understanding its geopolitical motivations and influence on various political dynamics.
It explores the consistent support of the British government for US foreign policy, particularly in the Middle East, raising questions about the motives and consequences of this close alliance between the two countries.
Deep dives
The historical influence of the United States in the Middle East
The podcast discusses the long-lasting impact of the United States on the Middle East region. It highlights how the United States has maintained a dominant role not only in the Persian Gulf but also in other countries such as Egypt. The podcast emphasizes the importance of understanding the geopolitical motivations behind the US presence in the region and its influence on various political dynamics. It also explores the role of the United Kingdom in supporting US foreign policy, particularly in relation to the Middle East. The podcast raises questions about the motives and consequences of this close alliance between the two countries.
The role of the British government in supporting US foreign policy
The podcast delves into the British government's consistent support for US foreign policy, particularly in the Middle East. It discusses how British policy has often aligned closely with American interests and actions, even at the cost of domestic and international criticism. The podcast explores various historical instances, including the support during the Iraq War and the continued reliance on US security arrangements. It also raises questions about the extent to which the British government's stance is influenced by its desire to maintain a global role and its perception of the United States as a powerful ally.
Influence of American primacy on British defense and foreign policy
This podcast episode reveals the impact of American primacy on shaping British defense and foreign policy. It examines how the United Kingdom has become largely tied to American strategic decisions and priorities, often without significant independent questioning or dissent. The podcast highlights the British government's alignment with US policy in various international crises, such as dealing with Israel-Palestine, Russia-Ukraine, and China. It also discusses the implications of this alignment, including the potential loss of independence and the implications on domestic politics and global strategic priorities.
The impact of Brexit and domestic politics on UK-US relationship
The podcast briefly touches upon the impact of Brexit and domestic politics on the UK-US relationship. It implies that the UK government may feel a degree of desperation to maintain close ties with the United States, potentially to prevent Germany's ascendency in Europe or to secure economic and security alliances. The podcast also mentions recent incidents, such as the HMS Defender's sailing near Crimea, and postulates that the UK government's reactions and policies may stem from a sense of vulnerability or the need to demonstrate loyalty as an important ally. However, the podcast does not delve deeply into these aspects.
In Someone Else's Empire Tom Stevenson, a contributing editor at the LRB, dispels the potent myth of Britain as a global player punching above its weight on the world stage, arguing instead that its foreign policy has for a long time been in thrall to the wishes and interests of the United States.
He talks about his book with writer, filmmaker, publisher and activist Tariq Ali.