For decades, the United States maintained unparalleled global influence, shaping international politics, trade, and military alliances in its favor. However, the era of U.S. hegemony has been eroding, particularly in the 21st century, with multiple factors contributing to its decline. Among the most significant is Washington’s foreign policy in the Middle East, specifically its unconditional support for Israel’s actions in Palestine. Under President Joe Biden, the U.S. adopted a stance that many around the world condemned as complicit in what has been described as genocide against the Palestinian people. This position not only harmed America’s reputation but also strengthened the belief that Washington implements human rights standards selectively in order to further its geopolitical goals. Donald Trump’s return to office has only made the transition away from U.S. dominance more pronounced. His “America First” policies and transactional approach to diplomacy have further isolated the United States from its traditional friends while emboldening its foes.
Biden’s Role in Accelerating U.S. Decline
President Biden came into office promising to restore America’s global leadership, particularly after the tumultuous Trump years. On the other hand, the fact that his administration fully supported Israel’s military activities in Gaza made that goal much more difficult to achieve. As stories of civilian casualties, forced displacements, and destruction of infrastructure came to light, there was an increase in worldwide anger. Despite calls for caution and a halt to the carnage from the United Nations, human rights organizations, and even important allies of the United States, Washington remained committed to providing military assistance and diplomatic support to Israel.
This steadfast backing caused the United States to become estranged from a large portion of the Global South, including powerful countries in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Countries that once viewed the U.S. as a global leader increasingly turned toward alternative powers, particularly China and Russia. Beijing, in particular, has capitalized on U.S. missteps, presenting itself as a neutral mediator in international conflicts and expanding its economic and diplomatic reach through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Russia, too, has used the opportunity to rally support from countries skeptical of Western dominance, as seen in its growing alliances in Africa and the Middle East.
In addition, Biden’s shortcomings in foreign policy were not limited to the Middle East. The way his government dealt with the war in Ukraine, the economic difficulties with China, and the disorderly exit from Afghanistan severely damaged the confidence of the United States. In short, Biden’s time in office has sped up the fall of U.S. dominance by strengthening the world’s doubts about Washington’s dedication to democracy, human rights, and stability.
Trump’s Intensification of the Decline
The loss of the United States’ worldwide power continues with Donald Trump back in office, albeit it is happening in various ways. Trump has been more open about his dislike for multilateralism than Biden, and he favours a transactional approach to foreign policy. His focus on “America First” policies has caused long-time allies to feel estranged, undermined international institutions, and increased doubt regarding the commitments of the United States. Meanwhile, regional powers such as Turkey and India are asserting their independence from Washington’s directives. The Middle East, once a region where the U.S. dictated terms, is witnessing a power shift, with Gulf nations engaging more with China and Russia and distancing themselves from U.S. hegemony.
Trump’s policies have further emboldened geopolitical rivals. China continues to expand its global economic influence, forming strategic alliances. Russia, despite Western sanctions, remains a major player in global energy and security matters. Trump’s statements regarding Canada, Greenland, or even Panama has, in the view of some critics, emboldened other global powers—particularly China and Russia—to pursue their own territorial ambitions. By normalizing the idea of acquiring land through force or purchase, these statements are seen as weakening longstanding international norms and encouraging nations with expansionist inclinations to act on them. Critics argue that when a prominent leader publicly entertains the notion of annexing other countries, it sends a message that such behavior is acceptable, potentially paving the way for more aggressive moves on the world stage.
Additionally, Trump’s unpredictable and often confrontational approach to diplomacy has weakened confidence in the United States as a stable global leader. Whether in NATO, the United Nations, or other international forums, Washington’s influence has diminished as other nations seek alternatives to a U.S.-led global order.
The Consequences of U.S. Decline
The decline of U.S. dominance has significant consequences for politics around the world. To begin with, it speeds up the emergence of a multipolar world in which no one country has control over global matters. This shift has already begun, with China, Russia, and regional powers carving out spheres of influence. The decline of American dominance also means that global institutions, once shaped primarily by U.S. interests, are becoming less Western-centric.
Second, U.S. economic influence is waning as countries explore alternatives to the dollar-dominated financial system. BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) are pushing for de-dollarization, aiming to reduce dependence on American financial institutions and sanctions. If successful, this shift could significantly undermine the U.S.’s ability to impose economic pressure on adversaries.
Finally, the decline of U.S. influence may lead to greater global instability. While American hegemony has often been criticized for its interventions and double standards, it also provided a level of predictability in international affairs. The transition to a multipolar world brings uncertainties, as new power struggles emerge and alliances shift. The absence of a dominant global enforcer may lead to increased regional conflicts, economic rivalries, and unpredictability in global governance.
Final thoughts
The decline of U.S. dominance is no longer just a hypothetical situation; it is happening right now. President Biden’s unwavering support for Israel’s activities in Palestine has hastened the fall of America’s credibility and power, while Trump’s return to office has only made the situation worse through isolationist and transactional policies. As the world moves toward a multipolar order, the United States faces a critical choice: adapt to the new geopolitical landscape through cooperation and diplomacy or continue on a path of decline fueled by outdated hegemonic ambitions. The coming years will determine whether the U.S. can redefine its global role or be relegated to the status of a fading superpower.
