Well, folks, here we are again. President Donald J. Trump, in his second inaugural week, has hit the ground running—or perhaps sprinting—with a series of executive orders that have left the international community buzzing. Among the most talked-about are his decisions to lift sanctions on Israeli settlers and to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO). Let’s dive into these moves with the skepticism they deserve.
Lifting Sanctions on Israeli Settlers: A Bold Embrace
In a move that surprised absolutely no one familiar with his previous tenure, President Trump signed an executive order revoking sanctions imposed by the Biden administration on certain Israeli settler groups accused of violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich wasted no time in expressing his gratitude, praising Trump’s “unwavering support” and viewing the decision as a sign of the president’s deep connection to the Jewish people and their historical claim to the land.
Critics argue that this move undermines efforts toward a two-state solution and could embolden extremist elements within the settler community. The Biden-era sanctions were initially implemented to penalize individuals undermining peace, security, and stability in the West Bank.
Withdrawing from the WHO: Déjà Vu All Over Again
Not stopping there, President Trump has also announced that the United States will exit the World Health Organization, citing its alleged mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other international health crises. He described the WHO as being under “inappropriate political influence” and criticized the disproportionate financial contributions required from the U.S. compared to countries like China.
This isn’t the first time we’ve been down this road. Back in 2020, Trump initiated a similar withdrawal, only for it to be halted by President Joe Biden upon taking office. The process, which takes 12 months to complete, involves halting U.S. financial contributions—currently about 18% of the WHO’s funding—and recalling American personnel. Health experts warn that this move could threaten critical health programs, especially those addressing tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and other emergencies.
The Bigger Picture: America First or America Alone?
These executive actions are emblematic of President Trump’s “America First” philosophy. However, critics argue that such unilateral moves risk isolating the United States on the global stage. By lifting sanctions on Israeli settlers, the administration may be perceived as condoning actions that many international observers view as obstacles to peace. Similarly, withdrawing from the WHO during a time when global health cooperation is paramount could diminish U.S. influence in international health policy and response.
Conclusion: A New Era or a Repeat Performance?
As we watch these developments unfold, one can’t help but wonder: Are we witnessing a strategic repositioning of the United States’ role in the world, or are we simply replaying a familiar script with predictable outcomes? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—President Trump’s approach continues to generate debate, both at home and abroad.
Stay tuned, folks. It’s going to be an interesting ride.
