Does flexing America’s muscles in the Middle East make things worse?

An Intelligence Squared debate about America's role in the Middle East. How do we strike a balance between our national interests, moral obligations, and the maintenance of world order?

Full transcript

This debate will be broadcast on MPR News Presents today at noon and 9:00 p.m.

The rise of ISIS, the disintegration of Iraq, Syria’s ongoing civil war, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the promise and peril of the Arab Spring... What role should America play in the Middle East? For some, America’s restraint has been a sign of disciplined leadership. But for others, it has been a sign of diminished strength and influence. How do we strike a balance between our national interests, moral obligations, and the maintenance of world order? Are we simply recognizing the limitations of our power, or does this embattled region require a bolder, more muscular, American presence? (IQ2)

Today's Question: Does flexing America's muscles in the Middle East make things worse?

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