As the leader of the world’s most powerful military and largest economy, the United States has outsized influence on global affairs. Decisions made in Washington often have ripple effects that can affect people thousands of miles away, which is why it is important to have a foreign policy built on principles of peace and cooperation.
In practice, foreign policy refers to the set of strategies a country uses in its interactions with other nations and international organizations. It can include anything from negotiating trade agreements to resolving international conflicts and fighting terrorism. Foreign policy also encompasses the development and maintenance of diplomatic relations with other countries through embassies, consulates, and other international offices.
There are different theories and approaches to making foreign policy, including hard and soft strategies. Hard foreign policy involves using force or the threat of force to advance a country’s goals and interests in the international system, while soft foreign policy is based on the use of attraction or persuasion.
When it comes to soft foreign policy, Secretary Blinken has consistently argued that talking through a conflict is the best way to bring warring parties together and create an end to hostilities. He has always seen diplomacy as the answer not war, even if it is difficult and time consuming. His efforts to bring the Israelis and Hamas to the table have been hampered by both sides refusing to compromise, but we continue to believe that diplomacy is the solution, not escalation of force.