Tackling the Triple Threat: Biden’s 2023 Foreign Policy Challenges of China, Russia and the Middle East

In the wake of Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 US presidential elections, there are already major debates about the new administration’s foreign policy. This, however, is certain to become even more significant in 2023 as the newly elected president and his team face a number of difficult challenges from major world powers such as China and Russia, as well as regional powers like Saudi Arabia and Iran. First and foremost, Biden will face the immense challenge of establishing and maintaining stable relations with China, especially as it continues its expansive regional and international policies. A well-crafted and effective diplomatic agenda will be of paramount importance in accomplishing this. On the economic front, the US has already placed sanctions on the country, and is now considering adding additional barriers to Chinese investments in technology and other highly strategic sectors. Beyond this, Biden will seek to renew negotiations on issues such as trade, climate change, and the South China Sea. On the other hand, Biden will also have to repair the US relationship with Russia. In recent years, US-Russia relations have been significantly strained by the Trump administration’s aggressiveness towards Moscow. Given this, it is highly likely that Biden’s team will rely on a softer policy towards Moscow. From improving communications, to involving Russia in the resolution of regional and international crises, there is no doubt that it will be a challenging road ahead. Secondly, Biden’s foreign policy will have to address escalating conflict in the Middle East. This includes the ongoing war in Syria as well as the tension between the US and Iran. Since Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal, relations between Washington and Tehran have been characterized by unprecedented hostility and confrontation. Of equal importance will be the peace process in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Although previous US administrations have sought to mediate between the two parties, the situation is more complex than ever. Finally, in 2023, the Biden administration will likely continue its active support for democracies and human rights across the globe. Particularly in countries such as Hong Kong, Venezuela, Syria, and Myanmar, the US will continue to side with activists and those seeking peace and justice. This will come at a time when authoritarianism and xenophobia are on the rise in many countries. Overall, Biden’s foreign policy challenges in 2023 will be daunting. From the daunting task of managing US-China relations, to managing the ongoing conflicts and crises in the Middle East, the new president and his team will have to develop a comprehensive and nuanced approach to foreign policy. However, there is little doubt that Biden’s team will be well prepared and equipped for the difficult journey ahead.