The End of Old Multilateralism: Trump, Iran, and the Collapse of Global Alliances
The year 2023 will be remembered as a turning point in international relations. The old multilateral systems, such as NATO and the G7, are losing relevance, and America under Donald Trump shows it no longer cares to consult its allies. Trump abruptly left the G7 summit in Canada to launch a mission against Iranian nuclear facilities, leaving other members stunned.
The G7, once a powerful group formed in response to instability in the Middle East after the Yom Kippur War, is now just a shadow of its former self. Trump’s “America First” policy and rejection of endless wars attract many Americans but also remind us of chaos and unpredictability.
Russia was expelled from the G8 after annexing Crimea, and the G20, although it provided an effective response to the 2008 financial crisis, is now paralyzed by trade and currency disputes. Trump’s claim that Russia should be part of the solution, despite its numerous conflicts and support for dictatorships, seems bizarre.
While French President Emmanuel Macron tries to talk about a ceasefire, Trump leaves the summit, showing that Mars—the god of war—has overpowered Mercury—the god of trade. Leaving a multilateral summit because of war is a strange move for a man who claims to want peace.
Trump previously declared military engagement in the Middle East the worst decision ever, yet now uses the threat of war as leverage, reminiscent of his trade war escalation. The question is, what if bombing Iranian nuclear sites fails? Will the world be dragged into another conflict with an uncertain outcome?
It is clear the current global governance system is in crisis, and new leaders are needed who will channel Mercury, not Mars. But who will that be? Europe, China, or perhaps the Global South?
Meanwhile, the world watches old alliances crumble, and a new era of uncertainty and conflict looms.
If this all sounds like a bad movie, you’re not alone. But hey, maybe it’s time we all chime in—who’s next on the chopping block for global alliance booting? Or maybe it’s time to chill and remember that peace beats war any day.
Political Compass:
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