Faisal Saeed Al Mutar

Faisal Saeed Al Mutar, President of Ideas Beyond Borders, discusses the implications of the Trump administration's shift from soft power in the Middle East, arguing it was a necessary strategy against rivals like Iran and China. Jeffrey Gedmin, CEO of the Middle East Broadcasting Networks, counters that it harms America's image and undermines long-term stability in the region. The conversation dives into the effectiveness of U.S. foreign policy, the balance of hard and soft power, and the evolving dynamics with Israel amidst regional threats.

Faisal Saeed Al Mutar, an Iraqi-born founder of Ideas Beyond Borders, and Emma Ashford, a senior fellow at the Stimson Center, delve into the ramifications of the U.S. bombing of Iran. They discuss the delicate balance between regional security and democracy promotion, the complexities of U.S. foreign policy, and the intricate ties between nations like Germany, Israel, and Iran. The conversation also highlights the Kurdish situation and critiques U.S. military strategies, suggesting a need for reevaluation in light of rising geopolitical tensions.

Faisal Saeed Al Mutar, an Iraqi refugee and co-founder of Ideas Beyond Borders, shares his profound experiences during Iraq's tumultuous times. He reflects on the chaos of Saddam Hussein's fall and the U.S. invasion, emphasizing the importance of promoting secularism and critical thinking in the Arab world. The conversation tackles the failures of U.S. foreign policy, the dual role of Qatar in regional conflicts, and the urgent need for empowering youth with ideas instead of weapons. Faisal's candid insights reveal the ongoing struggle for genuine reform amidst dictatorship and extremism.