The ‘New’ Middle East? Regional Dynamics in the Second Trump Presidency and Implications for Korea
▶️ Trump's "America First" Middle East Policy: A second Trump term will likely amplify transactional approaches, such as maximum pressure on Iran, support for Israel’s hawkish policies, and arms deals with Gulf nations, while rapidly withdrawing U.S. troops from the region, risking further instability.
▶️ Korea’s Expanded Global Role: Korea has proactively supported humanitarian aid and international norms in the Middle East, emphasizing nonproliferation, democracy, and human rights, aligning with its vision as a “Global Pivotal State.”
▶️ Gulf States and Korea’s Potential: As Gulf nations pursue reforms to diversify their economies and prepare for a nuclear Iran and U.S. withdrawal, Korea is well-positioned to expand economic and defense partnerships without hegemonic ambitions.