Staff Reports
Former President Donald Trump continues to assert his “peace through strength” doctrine with a series of decisive actions aimed at bolstering national security and countering global threats. Last week, the U.S. military, in coordination with Iraqi intelligence, eliminated Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai, known as Abu Khadija, a senior ISIS leader responsible for global operations. This precision airstrike in Iraq’s Al Anbar Province not only disrupted ISIS’s logistical capabilities but also reinforced Trump’s commitment to eradicating terrorism. Trump hailed the operation as a victory for American and allied forces, emphasizing that such actions are essential to safeguarding the homeland and deterring adversaries.
Trump’s approach to counter-terrorism reflects a sharp departure from previous administrations’ strategies, which often relied on multilateral diplomacy and prolonged engagements. Under his leadership, ISIS’s territorial caliphate was dismantled, culminating in the death of its leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in 2019. Now, as ISIS operates as a decentralized network, Trump’s administration remains focused on targeting key figures to weaken its global influence. Critics may argue that this strategy lacks nuance, but supporters view it as an effective way to neutralize threats without entangling the U.S. in endless wars—a principle central to Trump’s foreign policy.
The former president’s efforts extend beyond counter-terrorism to broader geopolitical challenges, including the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Trump has sought to broker peace through direct negotiations, advocating for a 30-day ceasefire as a first step toward resolution. While talks in Saudi Arabia yielded no formal agreement, Trump’s persistence demonstrates his belief in diplomacy over prolonged conflict. His critics claim these efforts lack substance, but proponents argue that his unconventional methods reflect a pragmatic approach to resolving complex international disputes.
Trump has also turned his attention to Iran’s nuclear ambitions, leveraging sanctions and diplomatic pressure to bring Tehran back to the negotiating table. His administration demands sweeping concessions from Iran, including the dismantling of its uranium enrichment program and limits on missile development—conditions far stricter than those outlined in the 2015 JCPOA nuclear deal. While critics warn that these demands may hinder progress, Trump’s supporters see them as necessary steps to curb Iran’s destabilizing activities and protect American interests.
In addition to military strength, Trump is prioritizing economic security as a cornerstone of his national defense strategy. His administration has raised tariffs on Chinese goods and intensified scrutiny of Beijing’s trade practices to protect American industries and workers. This hardline stance against China aligns with Trump’s broader goal of ensuring U.S. competitiveness in the global economy while countering China’s growing influence. Whether through targeted strikes or economic leverage, Trump’s “peace through strength” doctrine underscores his commitment to preserving America’s security and sovereignty—an approach that resonates strongly with his base as he seeks to redefine leadership on the world stage.
