The tenure of Donald Trump will be remembered by future historians not for its populist fervour, but for the stark contrast between its “America First” rhetoric and the reality of a diminished global standing. As his presidency neared its end, the world witnessed a dangerous blend of strategic miscalculation in the Middle East and a childish refusal to accept the peaceful transition of power, a hallmark of the very democracy he swore to protect.

Trump’s foreign policy, particularly regarding Iran, was characterised by “maximum pressure” that yielded minimum results. By unilaterally withdrawing from the JCPOA and engaging in targeted escalations, his administration inadvertently accelerated the very outcomes it sought to prevent.

The push towards a conflict with Iran did not result in a “better deal”, but instead led to significant losses in terms of regional stability and American credibility. The cost of........

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