Trump tries to defy troubled history of US interventions in Middle East

The article examines a 2026 U.S. administration’s renewed Middle East intervention strategy amid decades of failed military and political efforts in the region. Former President Trump’s approach seeks to break historical patterns by prioritizing economic leverage and energy deals over direct military engagement, targeting Iran and Gulf allies. Critics argue the plan risks repeating past mistakes, citing unresolved conflicts in Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan as evidence of persistent strategic miscalculations by U.S. leaders. Analysts highlight shifting global dynamics, including China’s growing influence and reduced U.S. energy dependence, complicating traditional intervention justifications and tactics. The piece underscores bipartisan skepticism in Washington, with lawmakers questioning the feasibility of sustainable outcomes without addressing root causes like governance failures and regional rivalries.