Answer

The United States’ foreign policy in West Asia has long been characterised by strong support for Israel, extensive engagement in regional security, and involvement in oil diplomacy. Driven by a strategic goal to maintain stability and secure energy resources, the U.S. actively influences regional dynamics, which often has implications for global players like India with strategic interests in West Asia’s peace, security, and economic cooperation.

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US Foreign Policy in West Asia

• Strategic Alliance with Israel: The U.S. regards Israel as a key ally in maintaining stability in West Asia, providing military aid and political support.
  For example: The U.S. provided Israel with over $3.8 billion in military assistance in 2022, primarily to bolster defence capabilities.
• Countering Iranian Influence: The U.S. seeks to limit Iran’s influence in the region, supporting allies in counterbalancing Iran’s power, especially due to nuclear concerns.
  For example: The U.S. withdrew from the JCPOA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) in 2018, increasing sanctions on Iran to curtail its nuclear ambitions.
• Military Presence for Regional Stability: The U.S. maintains military bases in countries like Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait, aiming to respond quickly to any regional threats.
  For example: The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) oversees a significant military presence in the region to ensure swift action in case of conflict.
• Oil Security and Energy Control: Given West Asia’s oil reserves, the U.S. actively engages in energy diplomacy, ensuring stable oil flow to global markets.
  For example: The Carter Doctrine (1980) stated that the United States would use military force, if necessary, to defend its national interests in the Persian Gulf.
• Support for Peace Agreements: The U.S. has brokered peace deals like the Abraham Accords to normalise relations between Israel and Arab states, promoting regional cooperation.
  For example: The Abraham Accords in 2020 normalised relations between Israel and the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco, reducing Israel’s isolation in the region.
• Counterterrorism Initiatives: The U.S. collaborates with allies to counter terrorist organisations, particularly those threatening Israel and regional stability.
  For instance: The U.S. supports anti-ISIS coalitions and conducts military operations to disrupt terrorist networks across West Asia.
• Economic Sanctions as a Diplomatic Tool: The U.S. frequently uses economic sanctions against countries like Iran and Syria to deter actions against U.S. allies and interests.
  For instance: Sanctions imposed on Iran have restricted its oil exports, aiming to reduce its regional influence.

Impact of US Foreign Policy in West Asia on India’s Strategic Interests

• Energy Security: U.S. sanctions on Iran impact India’s energy imports, affecting India’s ability to procure affordable oil.
  For example: Following U.S. sanctions, India had to reduce oil imports from Iran, impacting India’s energy budget and raising dependency on other sources.
• Balancing Relations with Iran: India’s ties with Iran, crucial for regional connectivity and access to Central Asia, are challenged by the U.S.-Iran tensions.
  For example: India’s investment in Chabahar Port aligns with its interests in Afghanistan but faces obstacles due to U.S. sanctions on Iran.
• Strategic Ties with Israel and Arab States: U.S. support for Israel influences India’s diplomatic balancing act between Israel and Arab nations.
  For instance: India has deepened ties with Israel in defence while maintaining relations with Arab countries to secure energy and safeguard its diaspora.
• Access to the Gulf Region for Trade: U.S. military presence ensures security in the Gulf, a vital trade route for India, affecting India’s economic stability.
  For example: Nearly 60% of India’s oil imports transit through the Persian Gulf, making regional stability essential for India’s trade.
• Regional Terrorism Concerns: The U.S. counterterrorism focus, especially against ISIS, aligns with India’s security concerns but raises complexities with Pakistan’s role in the region.
  For instance: U.S. counterterrorism partnerships with Gulf nations help curb terrorism but can lead to indirect tensions with Pakistan, impacting India’s security.
• Israel-Arab Relations and India’s Outreach: The Abraham Accords facilitate India’s engagement with Israel and Arab nations without antagonising either, aiding India’s diplomatic efforts.
  For instance: India has leveraged these normalising ties to expand its influence across both Israeli and Arab allies in West Asia.
• Influence on India’s Diaspora: U.S. policies indirectly affect Indian expatriates in the Gulf, who contribute significantly to India’s economy through remittances.
  For example: India received $87 billion in remittances in 2021, with a large share from West Asia, underscoring the need for stable U.S.-Arab relations.

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The United States’ foreign policy in West Asia profoundly impacts India’s energy security, diplomatic balance, and regional connectivity. For India, navigating this complex landscape requires a delicate balance of maintaining strong ties with the U.S., Israel, and Arab nations, while securing its own strategic interests in the region. Adapting to these dynamics will be essential for India’s long-term growth and stability in West Asia.

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