The text analyzes the early actions of the Trump administration, focusing on controversial executive orders. The author discusses concerns about potential constitutional violations regarding birthright citizenship and Trump’s foreign policy ambitions, particularly regarding Canada and Greenland. A central theme is the comparison of Trump’s “Greater America” aspirations to past attempts at global power restructuring. The piece also explores Trump’s relationships with other countries, including Russia, China, and Saudi Arabia, noting potential impacts on international relations. Finally, the author critiques specific policies, such as Trump’s stance on the World Health Organization and transgender rights.

Presidential Actions & Global Dynamics: A Study Guide

Quiz

Answer each question in 2-3 sentences.

1. What is the central legal argument against Trump’s executive order regarding birthright citizenship?
2. What is the “New World Order” concept discussed in the source, and how does it relate to changing political boundaries?
3. According to the speaker, how does the formation of Bangladesh challenge the idea that nations are defined solely by religious community?
4. What historical role has America played in global humanitarian efforts, according to the speaker, and how does this relate to Trump’s actions?
5. Explain the speaker’s view of the claim that America should control Canada, Greenland, and Panama.
6. What was the historical and political significance of the 1977 Panama Canal treaty?
7. What is the primary reason, according to the source, that China is seen as a threat by the United States?
8. Describe the complex relationship between Taiwan, China, and the United States.
9. Why is Trump attempting to soften relations with Russia, according to the speaker?
10. What specific executive order related to the transgender community is discussed and why is it considered problematic?

Quiz Answer Key

1. The central legal argument against the order is that the 14th Amendment of the Constitution guarantees citizenship to any child born on US soil, making it impossible to abolish via executive order. This amendment is a firmly decided law that courts will uphold.
2. The “New World Order” is a concept where political divisions and national boundaries are not fixed, and the world map is constantly changing. It acknowledges that current national borders are not permanent, and they have been reshaped throughout history.
3. Bangladesh’s formation demonstrates that nations are not solely defined by religious communities because despite the shared Muslim identity, the country separated from Pakistan based on linguistic and regional factors, highlighting a challenge to the two-nation theory.
4. The speaker claims that historically, America has been a source of support for small communities experiencing poverty, natural disasters, and human rights violations worldwide. This history contrasts with Trump’s more isolationist approach.
5. The speaker views these claims as unserious jokes, similar to ideas of “Greater India” or “Greater Israel,” indicating that the likelihood of such acquisitions is minimal. He also acknowledges a historical rationale behind the US demanding the Panama canal back but dismisses the other claims.
6. The 1977 Panama Canal treaty, which President Carter signed, transferred control of the Panama Canal from the US to Panama. This treaty is significant because it demonstrates a rare willingness for the US to cede control of a resource it considered strategically important and contrasts with Trump’s policy objectives.
7. China is seen as a threat by the United States because of its emerging economy and challenge to American global dominance. The US perceives that nations resisting US control tend to align with China, posing a challenge to the US led world order.
8. Taiwan has a complex relationship with China, which views the democratic island as a part of its territory. The US supports Taiwan’s independence and democratic freedoms. The potential for Chinese aggression in Taiwan creates ongoing political tension.
9. Trump is trying to soften relations with Russia as part of a strategic move to avoid having two major adversaries simultaneously and prevent Russia from aligning with China. Trump sees this as a way to relieve pressure in Ukraine and ensure Russian neutrality in a future conflict with China.
10. The executive order that limits the rights of transgender individuals is considered problematic because it is seen as a violation of fundamental human rights. The order goes against the American courts’ tradition of protecting individual’s rights to determine their gender identity and goes against the spirit of inclusivity that has grown in US culture.

Essay Questions

1. Analyze the speaker’s understanding of American identity in light of the executive orders under discussion.
2. Discuss the evolving global political map as described in the source and its impact on American foreign policy.
3. Evaluate the historical references made in the source, and discuss how they influence the speaker’s perception of current events.
4. Critically examine the argument presented regarding the connection between religious beliefs and political actions in the source.
5. Compare and contrast the speaker’s opinions with those of Trump, addressing potential areas of overlap and stark differences.

Glossary of Key Terms

• Executive Order: A directive issued by the President of the United States that manages operations of the federal government.
• 14th Amendment: A crucial amendment to the U.S. Constitution that, among other things, grants citizenship to all persons born or naturalized in the United States, including birthright citizenship.
• New World Order: A concept referring to a significant shift in global political power and international relations. In the text it implies the continuous reshaping of political boundaries.
• Two-Nation Theory: The idea that Hindus and Muslims in British India were distinct nationalities, leading to the partition of India and the creation of Pakistan.
• Welfare State: A system in which the government plays a key role in protecting and promoting the economic and social well-being of its citizens.
• Panama Canal Treaty (1977): An agreement between the US and Panama that transferred control of the Panama Canal from the US to Panama.
• Hamas: A Palestinian Sunni-Islamist fundamentalist organization, which often engages in political and military conflicts, especially with Israel.
• Netanyahu: Benjamin Netanyahu, former and current prime minister of Israel, a major political player in the middle east and with the US.
• Transgender: A term for people whose gender identity differs from the sex that they were assigned at birth.
• Republicans: One of the two major political parties in the United States, often associated with conservative ideology.
• Democrats: One of the two major political parties in the United States, often associated with liberal ideology.
• Kurds: An ethnic group native to the mountainous region of Kurdistan, divided across Turkey, Iran, Iraq, and Syria.
• Great Britain: A term which encompasses England, Scotland, and Wales, sometimes used to describe the UK.
• NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization): A military alliance of North American and European countries formed to counter the Soviet Union during the Cold War.
• Referendum: A general vote by the electorate on a single political question.

Trump’s Early Actions and Global Implications

Okay, here’s a detailed briefing document summarizing the main themes and important ideas from the provided text:

Briefing Document: Analysis of Trump’s Actions and Global Implications

Date: October 26, 2023 (based on the context of the text)

Subject: Analysis of Trump’s early executive orders, international relations, and geopolitical perspectives as presented in a conversational discourse.

Sources: Excerpts from “Pasted Text”.

Executive Summary:

This document analyzes a conversation discussing the initial actions of the Trump administration, focusing on executive orders, foreign policy aspirations, and the global implications. The discussion touches on the legality of Trump’s actions, his ambitions regarding territories, the nature of community and nationhood, and his relationships with key countries like Russia and China, along with some key domestic policy decisions. The speakers explore the long-term effects of these actions and attempt to place Trump’s behaviors in a broader historical and geopolitical context, highlighting potential future issues related to trade, alliances, and human rights.

Key Themes and Ideas:

1. Executive Orders and the Constitution:

• Theme: The discussion centers on the legality of several executive orders issued by the Trump administration, specifically regarding birthright citizenship.
• Key Idea: The text highlights a conflict between executive orders and constitutional law, specifically citing the 14th Amendment, which grants citizenship to those born on US soil.
• Quote: “According to that, any child born on this land will be called an American or will have that nationality. So, now it is a simple matter that a decided thing of the law cannot be abolished through an executive order.”
• Implication: The analysis concludes that executive orders attempting to override clear constitutional law will likely be challenged and overturned by the courts.

1. Territorial Ambitions and “Greater America”:

• Theme: Trump’s comments about acquiring territories like Canada, Greenland, and the Panama Canal are treated as both a joke and potentially indicative of a deeper mindset of expansionism.
• Key Idea: The text draws parallels between Trump’s aspirations and historical ideas like “Greater India” or “Greater Israel,” suggesting these desires for expansion may be unrealistic and unattainable.
• Quote: “It seems like every joke, but there is some reality inside every joke. … the way Greater Israel could not be formed, in the same way Greater America will not be able to be formed.”
• Implication: The discussion notes that such territorial ambitions would be difficult to achieve, and are seen more as symbolic expressions of power than actionable policy.

1. Redefining the Map and “New World Order”:

• Theme: The concept of a “New World Order” and how geopolitical boundaries are not permanent is considered. The conversation explores the idea that current nations and alliances are not immutable, using examples like the changing map of the world over centuries, to challenge the current order.
• Key Idea: The text emphasizes that the world’s political landscape is in constant flux, citing examples such as the creation and dissolution of states, empires, and communities over time and suggesting these changes are not necessarily permanent.
• Quote: “So, the meaning of New World Order should be understood, now the division that is there at this time, the order, the system that is going on, which can be called regional division or political division, the countries that have been formed, these are not just letters and letters.”
• Implication: The discussion notes that political divisions are not static and could change, referencing examples like the formation of Bangladesh as an example of changing national identities and highlighting that these divisions are fluid.

1. Community, Nation, and Identity:

• Theme: The conversation dives into the definition of “community” and “nation,” questioning whether they should be based on religion, region, or shared values and goals.
• Key Idea: The text argues against defining nations solely by religion or ethnicity, suggesting that regional and practical factors are more vital. The discussion points out contradictions that occur when nations are established based solely on religion (the break up of Pakistan and the formation of Bangladesh despite both being majority Muslim as an example)
• Quote: “Now it is not possible that if we start building a community on the basis of religion, then the very foundation of the countries will break, they cannot survive.”
• Implication: The text critiques the idea of a community based solely on religion and argues for shared well-being and human progress as better drivers of identity and unity.

1. America’s Role in the World and Human Rights:

• Theme: The discussion touches on the role of America as a global supporter of democracy, human rights, and disaster relief, recognizing the gap between these ideals and practical application.
• Key Idea: Despite a sometimes hypocritical stance on human rights, the speaker acknowledges the historical record of the US as a source of aid and support, but that there is still a difference between theory and practice
• Quote: “And then see, he raises his voice for human rights across the world, he raises his voice for democracy, then people take it with a very strict standard because there is always a difference between theory and practice.”
• Implication: It argues that the US needs to match their actions to their ideals on the world stage to be a true force for good, and that it could be viewed hypocritical for doing so.

1. Trump’s Foreign Policy and Relationships with Russia and China:

• Theme: The conversation highlights Trump’s shifting relationship dynamics with major world powers such as Russia and China.
• Key Idea: Trump is viewed as attempting to de-escalate tensions with Russia to focus on the perceived threat from China, positioning the two as rivals.
• Quote: “So he thinks, why should we unnecessarily keep two enemies with Russia? We should soften Russia, it means that the burden of Ukraine which is lying there should get relief and after that we should make such an agreement with it that it does not become an ally of China and becomes neutral so that if our relations with China are strained or there is a big problem in the future.”
• Implication: The text argues that this approach is a strategic move to isolate China and ensure it remains the primary target, while weakening other potential alliances with China.

1. The Case of Taiwan:

• Theme: The discussion emphasizes the precarious position of Taiwan, recognizing its complex relationship with both China and the USA.
• Key Idea: Taiwan is viewed as vulnerable to potential Chinese aggression, relying heavily on US support for its security. The fear of the consequences of a US withdrawal and parallels to the Russian invasion of Ukraine are made.
• Quote: “Taiwan has been saved so far because of America’s support. If America weakens today or retreats, then the way Russia has occupied Ukraine, it will be even sweeter for it. It will occupy everything.”
• Implication: A weakened US could lead to an emboldened China, potentially leading to the occupation of Taiwan, much like the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

1. Trump’s Domestic Policies and Values

• Theme: The text explores the potential for domestic strife stemming from new policies regarding the World Health Organization, transgender rights and citizenship.
• Key Idea: It states that Trump’s policies about the WHO and treatment of transgender people are based on a desire to appease his core Christian supporters, rather than being about best practices for the country as a whole.
• Quote: “The first motive is that who is the real strength of Trump. … It did not come from the votes of the Jews. It has come from the votes of the Jews. We say that people have strong faith and true Muslims. Similarly, there are also strong true Christians in America who do not care. And this is our state, all Christian states.”
• Implication: The text acknowledges that policies which deny the existence of transgender people and their rights are discriminatory and will likely be challenged in courts.

1. The Hamas-Israel Conflict:

• Theme: The text touches on the complexity of the Hamas-Israel conflict and the perception that Trump’s intervention was based on his own self-interests.
• Key Idea: The text argues Trump’s involvement was designed to make him look successful on the world stage, rather than addressing deeper injustices or human rights.
• Quote: “Trump, in order to make his own world, said that I got it accepted and I think that there was a very big issue in Israel that their 94 year old Mali, they could not catch 250 of them, when they attacked on 7 October”
• Implication: The text argues the current settlement was not a move for peace, but simply to create a win for Trump in the public eye, regardless of the injustice it may have caused.

1. Pakistan’s Position and Alliances:

• Theme: The conversation underscores Pakistan’s precarious situation and its need to balance relationships with various world powers.
• Key Idea: Pakistan should not rely solely on one country, such as China, and must maintain a stable relationship with the US, Saudi Arabia and others while ensuring its own interests are protected.
• Quote: “I do not think it is better that Pakistan, as they say, should not keep all America’s eggs in one basket, so we should not give everything to China. We should not blame China, otherwise when difficulties arise, when issues arise, then the heat of it will reach Pakistan as well.”
• Implication: The text suggests that Pakistan must balance relations with various countries and not become too reliant on any single global power, particularly in a world with an aggressive USA under Trump.

Conclusion:

The discussion highlights a volatile and complex international landscape under the new Trump administration. The text reveals concerns about the president’s disregard for law, territorial ambitions, the potential for new conflicts, and the need for countries like Pakistan to navigate a world with shifting global alliances. Trump is viewed as both a strategic leader with his own motives, and a loose cannon who acts with an intense personality and lack of regard for laws. The potential long-term effects of these early actions remain a focal point of concern.

This briefing doc attempts to be as comprehensive as possible, given the breadth of topics discussed and the conversational tone of the original text.

Trump’s US Policy Shifts and Geopolitical Implications

Frequently Asked Questions on Recent US Policy Shifts

1. What is the controversy surrounding President Trump’s executive orders regarding birthright citizenship, and what is their legal standing?
2. President Trump issued executive orders attempting to redefine birthright citizenship, suggesting that children born in the US to non-citizen parents would not automatically gain nationality. However, this contradicts the 14th Amendment of the Constitution, which clearly states that anyone born on US soil is a citizen. Legal scholars and courts will likely dismiss these executive orders as unconstitutional, rendering them unenforceable.
3. What is the significance of President Trump’s rhetoric about reclaiming territories like Canada, Greenland, and the Panama Canal?
4. President Trump has expressed desires to reclaim territories like Canada, Greenland, and the Panama Canal, often making these claims in a way that is perceived as a joke by many. The rhetoric could stem from a desire to assert US dominance, but practically, such land grabs are highly unlikely and legally complicated, especially in areas where a country like Greenland is a semi-autonomous territory that is part of another country. It is also interpreted as a sign of Trump’s desire to redraw the map of global influence and challenge the current geopolitical order, mirroring past ideas of “Greater India” or “Greater Israel”.
5. How does the concept of a “New World Order” relate to the current geopolitical landscape and Trump’s policies?
6. The concept of a “New World Order,” popularized by former President Bush, suggests a restructuring of global political divisions. Trump’s policies, including his desire to control territories like Canada and Greenland, could be interpreted as a move to reshape the existing world order. However, the argument being made is that such restructuring isn’t just the product of an executive order from one leader and it isn’t something that can be forced. The world order, it’s argued, is more complex than that.
7. Why are there so many discussions of different national and religious communities, and how do these play into geopolitics?
8. The discussions around different national and religious communities highlight the complex and ever-evolving nature of identity and sovereignty. The formation of nations and communities isn’t always based on ethnicity, religion, or shared culture alone. Factors like region, shared history, and political power also play crucial roles. The sources note that even within a religious community, there can be multiple nations. The source uses the Kurdish people, who share language and heritage but are divided across four different countries, as an example of this complexity. Furthermore, the fact that countries can be formed for reasons other than shared heritage is exemplified by the formation of Pakistan as a separate nation for Muslims in India, but Bangladesh, though equally Muslim, became its own nation. The question around identity and sovereignty also plays into Trump’s moves to potentially consolidate territory, and thus power, for America.
9. How does Trump’s approach to international relations differ from his predecessors, especially concerning countries like China and Russia?
10. Trump appears to prioritize pragmatic deals and economic interests over ideological alliances, as a businessman would. He seems willing to soften relations with Russia to counter China’s rising power, viewing Russia as a lesser threat due to its economic struggles while simultaneously being highly confrontational with China due to its growing economic strength. This contrasts with more traditional diplomatic approaches focused on maintaining existing alliances and multilateral agreements. He seems less interested in abstract, ideals driven approaches and more interested in a transaction approach that focuses on individual outcomes and deals.
11. What are the concerns and implications of Trump’s stance on the World Health Organization (WHO) and transgender rights?
12. Trump’s decision to withdraw from the WHO and his statements diminishing the rights of transgender individuals have sparked significant controversy. The WHO withdrawal raises concerns about international cooperation in public health, as the source notes that America should be supporting and taking advantage of the organization. Trump’s stance on transgender rights is considered discriminatory and goes against constitutional principles of individual rights and equality and is viewed as an attempt to appeal to a narrow base of Christian voters rather than being policy motivated.
13. What is the controversy surrounding Trump’s intervention in the Hamas-Israel conflict, and how is it perceived internationally?
14. Trump’s intervention in the Hamas-Israel conflict, while portrayed as a peacemaking effort by his administration, is criticized for bypassing existing negotiation frameworks and imposing unjust conditions. The negotiation, which resulted in a deal for hostages being swapped, is viewed by some as less of a resolution, and more of a way to enhance his own prestige and present an image of strong, decisive leadership. The source also notes that many see it as an inherently unfair deal which highlights the problems that occur in war and is not a product of great diplomacy. There is a concern that this intervention could further destabilize the region and potentially damage existing alliances.
15. How does the political situation in Pakistan and its relationship with America fit into the broader geopolitical context of Trump’s administration?
16. Pakistan’s current position in the world is delicate, and its leaders are trying to find their place and value, given the current global state of affairs. Pakistan’s leaders are acutely aware that the country is not currently viewed in high esteem on the international stage. Furthermore, the country is being advised to diversify its alliances and avoid over-reliance on either China or America. In the context of the current geopolitical situation and Trump’s administration, it is suggested that Pakistan should leverage its strong relationship with Saudi Arabia, who, in turn, are experiencing an upswing in their international relevance, to enhance relations with the US.

Trump’s Executive Orders and Foreign Policy

The sources discuss several of Trump’s executive orders and their implications. Here’s a breakdown:

• Immigration and Nationality: One executive order addresses the issue of children born in the U.S. to non-citizen parents. According to the order, these children would not automatically receive American nationality, which challenges the 14th Amendment of the Constitution. This order is expected to be challenged in court, as it contradicts existing law. The courts are considered the protectors of the law and will likely dismiss this executive order.
• Transgender Rights: Another executive order states that the U.S. only recognizes men and women, thereby excluding transgender people. This has been viewed as a violation of fundamental rights, as the American constitution gives individuals the right to determine their own gender. This order has also been criticized for potentially leading to discrimination and preventing transgender individuals from getting jobs. The order is likely to be challenged in court on the basis of discrimination.
• This decision is believed to appeal to Trump’s base, which consists of staunch Christians who do not accept transgender identities.
• The executive order also serves to attack Trump’s political rivals, the Democrats, who have supported transgender rights.
• World Health Organization (WHO): Trump issued an executive order to withdraw from the World Health Organization. The decision is criticized because of the benefits that some people get from the WHO.
• Hamas and Israel: An executive order addresses the conflict between Hamas and Israel. The order aimed to resolve the conflict, but was criticized as unjust. The decision was controversial within Israel and resulted in the release of four Israeli women in exchange for 200 Palestinians.
• Land Acquisition: Trump has expressed a desire to gain control over various territories, including Canada, Greenland, and Panama. These actions have been described as “empty wishes,” reminiscent of an attempt to control as much land as possible. Trump’s interest in Greenland is based on its location, which is in America and not in Europe. Trump wants to get rid of European countries’ colonies, and if they do not leave willingly, he may force them to leave.
• The source suggests that exerting pressure on Canada and Greenland could be beneficial for America.
• It is suggested that offering American citizenship to Canadians could be appealing, potentially leading to their desire for statehood.
• Trump’s interest in Panama stems from the historical significance of the Panama Canal, built by Americans. He believes the U.S. should regain control, especially since it was built by them with loss of American lives and significant investment of wealth.

In addition to specific orders, the source also touches on Trump’s overall approach:

• Business-Oriented: Trump’s actions are viewed through the lens of a businessman, who weighs the pros and cons of each decision.
• Pragmatic: Trump’s foreign policy, particularly towards Russia, is seen as strategic. He is trying to avoid having two enemies at the same time and wants to make sure Russia doesn’t become an ally of China.
• Unpredictable: Trump is portrayed as someone who can be both serious and jokingly, making it difficult to predict his next move.
• Phobic of China: Trump believes that China is a threat to the US. Trump’s phobia of China is also seen in the context of China’s economy as an emerging economy which challenges American dominance.

Constitutional Challenges to Trump’s Executive Orders

The sources discuss several constitutional challenges related to Trump’s executive orders. Here’s a breakdown of the key issues:

• 14th Amendment and Birthright Citizenship: One of Trump’s executive orders aims to change the rules regarding birthright citizenship. The order states that children born in the U.S. to non-citizen parents would not automatically receive American nationality. This directly challenges the 14th Amendment of the Constitution, which states that any child born on U.S. soil is granted American citizenship. According to the source, this is a settled matter of law that cannot be undone through an executive order. It is expected that the courts, which are viewed as the protectors of the law, will dismiss this order. This issue is expected to be challenged in many states.
• Transgender Rights and Discrimination: Another executive order is criticized as violating the fundamental rights of transgender individuals. This order states that the U.S. only recognizes men and women, effectively excluding transgender people from legal recognition. This is seen as a form of discrimination and is likely to be challenged in court on the basis of discrimination. The American constitution is understood to guarantee every individual the right to determine their own gender, and therefore, the executive order may be viewed as an attempt to snatch that right. This order also has implications for employment, as the order states that transgender individuals will not be able to get jobs, which is another violation of rights.
• Judicial Review: The sources emphasize the role of the courts as protectors of the law. They are expected to review and potentially dismiss executive orders that contradict the Constitution. The courts will likely intervene in cases concerning the executive orders that affect birthright citizenship and transgender rights.

In summary, Trump’s executive orders have raised significant constitutional concerns, particularly regarding the 14th Amendment and birthright citizenship, and the fundamental rights of transgender individuals. The courts are expected to play a crucial role in addressing these challenges, as they are the protectors of the law.

Trump’s Greater America

The concept of “Greater America” is discussed in the sources, primarily in the context of Trump’s actions and ambitions. Here’s a breakdown of what the sources suggest about this idea:

• Territorial Expansion: Trump is described as having a desire to gain control over various territories, including Canada, Greenland, and Panama. This ambition is portrayed as an attempt to expand American influence and control, similar to historical notions of “Greater India” or “Greater Israel”.
• “Empty Wishes”: These desires are characterized as “empty wishes”, suggesting they are not realistic and may not be achievable. The source implies that they are more of a reflection of Trump’s ambition to control as much land as possible. The source uses the analogy that “it seems as if Trump has become Malik Riyaz, meaning to take control of this plot as well as this plot”.
• Historical Parallels: The idea of a “Greater America” is compared to concepts like “Greater Israel” and “Incredible India”. The source suggests that just as “Greater Israel” could not be formed, “Greater America” is also unlikely to be realized.
• Specific Targets:
• Canada and Greenland: Trump’s interest in Canada and Greenland seems to stem from a desire to assert American dominance in the region. The source notes that Greenland is geographically part of America and questions why a European country should have it as a colony. It is suggested that putting pressure on Canada and Greenland could ultimately benefit the US. The source also speculates that offering American citizenship to Canadians could lead to a desire for statehood.
• Panama: Trump’s interest in Panama is linked to the historical significance of the Panama Canal, built by Americans with significant loss of life and investment. He believes that the U.S. should regain control of the canal.
• Economic Considerations: The source also mentions that if other countries do not get rid of their colonies, the US should.
• Chauvinistic Undertones: The source questions Trump’s idea of “identity” and states that the benefit of humans and their well-being, progress and happiness are more important, and that identity should not be a primary concern.

In summary, the idea of a “Greater America” as presented in the source is tied to Trump’s desire for territorial expansion and control, but it is also viewed as unrealistic and potentially unachievable. It is seen as a reflection of his ambitions rather than a practical geopolitical strategy. The source also implies that such an ambition is rooted in a desire to regain past glory rather than concern for the well-being of the populace.

Trump’s America First Foreign Policy

The sources provide insights into US foreign policy, particularly under the Trump administration, by discussing specific actions, motivations, and broader strategies. Here’s an overview:

• Focus on American Interests: The sources suggest that Trump’s foreign policy is driven by a focus on what he perceives to be the best interests of the United States. This includes a desire to reassert American dominance and control over certain territories and resources.
• Transactional Approach: Trump’s approach to foreign policy is often described as transactional, similar to that of a businessman. He is seen as someone who weighs the pros and cons of every decision and seeks to maximize benefits for the US.
• Relationships with Allies and Rivals:
• Russia: Trump seeks to soften relations with Russia. This is seen as a strategic move to prevent Russia from aligning with China, which Trump views as a bigger threat. The goal is to relieve pressure on the US by making sure Russia does not become an ally of China.
• China: Trump has a phobia of China, viewing its emerging economy as a challenge to American dominance. The US sees China as a potential threat because countries that do not accept US control “run and sit in China’s lap,” which may lead to future problems for the US.
• Saudi Arabia: Trump has given importance to Saudi Arabia, and it is likely that his first foreign tour will be to that country. The US has historically had a strong relationship with Saudi Arabia, and the source suggests that this will continue under Trump.
• Territorial Ambitions: Trump has expressed interest in acquiring control over various territories, including Canada, Greenland, and Panama.
• Greenland: Trump believes that Greenland is geographically part of America and questions why it is a colony of a European country. He also believes that the US should not pay money to NATO if they do not get rid of their colonies.
• Panama: The US wants to regain control of the Panama Canal due to its historical significance and the investment made by Americans.
• Multilateralism and International Organizations: Trump has shown a skepticism towards international organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), and has issued an executive order to withdraw from it.
• Human Rights and Democracy: While the US has historically positioned itself as a champion of human rights and democracy, the sources suggest that the Trump administration’s actions do not always align with these values. The executive order that excludes transgender people is a notable example. The source notes that there is a difference between theory and practice, and that it is not always possible to achieve all of one’s goals in practice.
• Influence in the Middle East: The US is attempting to increase its influence in the Middle East by supporting Saudi Arabia, which has led to a reduction of Iran’s influence in Syria and Lebanon. This has the potential to benefit other Arab countries as well as Pakistan.
• Response to Conflict: Trump’s administration is shown to have an inconsistent and controversial approach to conflict resolution. For example, Trump intervened in the Hamas-Israel conflict and forced a deal that was seen as unjust.

In summary, US foreign policy under the Trump administration is characterized by a focus on American interests, a transactional approach, a desire to reassert American dominance, and a skepticism towards international organizations. There is also an emphasis on strategic relationships with both allies and rivals, as well as a willingness to challenge established norms and agreements.

Religion, Politics, and Identity

The sources discuss religious divisions in the context of both domestic and international politics, as well as their impact on national identity and policy. Here’s an overview of the key points:

• Religion and National Identity:
• The sources highlight how religion has been used to define national identity and create divisions. For example, the two-nation theory that led to the creation of Pakistan is cited, where the idea that Hindus and Muslims were two separate nations led to the formation of two countries.
• However, the source argues that this approach is outdated and that community is often formed on the basis of region rather than religion. The example of the Kurds is used to show how a single community can be divided among different countries.
• The sources also point out that many countries, such as those in the European Union, have people of all religions.
• The sources question the idea that religion should be the basis of nationality, saying that “Christians can be our nationals, but all other races do not get a nation”.
• Religious Divisions in America:
• The sources discuss how religious divisions, specifically within Christianity, influence American politics.
• Staunch Christians are identified as a key support base for Trump. This group is characterized by its literal interpretation of the Bible, which leads to views that are not inclusive of transgender people.
• This group believes that “America is great” and has a strong faith in Christianity, leading to their support for Trump.
• The source contrasts this group with liberal secular people who are more likely to be Democrats and favor human rights.
• Transgender Rights and Religious Beliefs:
• The sources indicate that religious beliefs are a major factor in the opposition to transgender rights. Both Christian and Muslim religious people view the idea of transgender people as inconsistent with their holy books.
• The sources suggest that Trump’s executive order excluding transgender people was intended to appease his religious base and attack his political rivals.
• The order is seen as discriminatory and an attempt to snatch fundamental rights, highlighting the clash between religious beliefs and individual rights.
• Religious Influence on Foreign Policy:
• The source notes that Saudi Arabia’s religious influence is increasing, specifically in Lebanon and Syria.
• The historical conflict between Shia and Sunni Muslims is briefly touched on. The source mentions that the leader of Liberation is a native of Riyadh and a Sunni, while the previous leader was a Shia. The religious beliefs of the two are said to be very different.
• The Role of the Courts:
• The courts are seen as protectors of the law and are expected to reject actions that violate individual rights. The courts are expected to challenge the executive order regarding transgender rights because it is against the constitution, which states it is every individual’s right to determine their own gender.

In summary, the sources show that religious divisions have significant effects on both domestic and international issues. Religious beliefs are shown to influence political affiliations, views on human rights, and international relations. The sources also suggest that while religion can be a strong basis for community and identity, it also can lead to division and discrimination when applied too rigidly.

By Amjad Izhar
Contact: amjad.izhar@gmail.com
https://amjadizhar.blog

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