The news of Republicans conceding defeat in both the US Senate and the House of Representatives has prompted celebrations among many people around the world who have become increasingly frustrated with Donald Trump’s leadership.
There are certainly reasons for this widespread resentment. Trump’s aggressive foreign policy, particularly his unprecedented military confrontation with Iran and the enormous expenditure of American taxpayers’ money, has raised serious concerns. His controversial immigration policies, discriminatory rhetoric towards migrants and Muslims, and unwavering military and financial support for Israel, while its devastating military campaign continues to claim innocent lives in Gaza, have further damaged America’s international credibility and its claim to uphold democracy and human rights.
However, I remain somewhat sceptical about the extent of this celebration, why? – because
Trump did not invent American interventionism or establish its global dominance. These are deeply rooted features of US foreign policy, pursued by successive administrations, both Democratic and Republican. Despite differences in leadership styles and political rhetoric, both parties have historically prioritised American strategic interests, often through military intervention, political interference and economic pressure, particularly against developing nations. Countries across Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East have repeatedly experienced the consequences, while vulnerable populations and ethnic communities have often borne the greatest suffering.
Therefore, replacing Trump with a Democratic president does not necessarily guarantee a fundamental change in America’s international conduct particularly the provision of billions of dollars in financial and military assistance, including vast quantities of weapons and ammunition, to Israel, which continues to use against innocent lives in Palestine, Lebanon and elsewhere will persist and continue unabated.
Nevertheless, Trump’s departure would certainly be welcome. His confrontational personality, divisive politics and unpredictable decisions have added further instability to an already troubled world. His exit could, at the very least, offer some relief.
Ultimately, the world needs more than a change of American leadership; it needs a fundamental change in American foreign policy—an end to double standards, military aggression, political interference and the exploitation of weaker nations, regardless of who occupies the White House.
I think that is the change truly worth celebrating.
Dr. Humayer Choudhury Ph.D.,
Executive Director, Voice for Global Bangladesh VfGB, Sydney, Australia.