What Does Biden Have Planned in the Middle East?

BY: JON B. ALTERMAN

Biden's Middle East policy appears normal but differs significantly from past administrations on key issues.

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Biden administration emphasizes Israeli-Saudi ties while avoiding excessive focus on the Middle East.

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Biden shifts focus: global cooperation, diplomacy over military, and partnership emphasis in the Middle East.

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Administration struggles with partner trust due to perception of abandoning Middle East, China capitalizes.

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Biden faces challenges with Saudi and UAE ties due to past criticism but recognizes their importance.

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Biden's Saudi trip contrasted with Xi's. Subsequently, Biden's team improved relations through high-level visits.

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US-Saudi ties improve, while US-UAE relations tense over F-35 sale, Russian ties, and China involvement.

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UAE's favor with the US diminishes due to perceived alignment with Trump, Qatar gains gratitude.

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