Perspective

The leaders of the Islamic Republic of Iran, or at least the top brass of the Revolutionary Guard Corps (the Pasdaran), likely did not read, or even try to understand, La Fontaine's fable, "The Frog Who Wished to Be as Big as an Ox," when they were at the height of their power. Had they done so, they would undoubtedly have recognized that they could not compete with powers possessing potential, in every domain, that was light-years away from their actual "divine" capabilities through ideology, empty slogans, fiery speeches, populism, demagoguery, and, above all, terrorism. If they were aware of the realities of this world, they would have been far more realistic in their expansionist and geostrategic ambitions.

A striking confirmation of the turning point reached by the Trump Administration in foreign policy — this, in essence and succinctly, is how several observers and analysts reacted to the United States’ National Security Strategy, released a few days ago by the White House. This major document, about thirty pages long and preceded by a foreword from President Donald Trump, sets out in detailed form the orientations and objectives Washington has defined regarding current developments in the world’s sensitive regions and the vital issues playing out on the international stage. The ideas presented by the administration’s team in the federal capital are not entirely surprising. They had already been the subject of active debate in various political and diplomatic circles, but it is likely the first time they have been assembled so comprehensively and methodically — theme by theme, region by region — in a single official document emanating from the highest levels of power.