US National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard announced a major shift in Washington’s foreign policy, declaring an end to America’s long-standing “regime change or nation building” approach in the Middle East. Speaking at the Manama Dialogue on October 31, Gabbard said the United States under President Donald Trump has moved away from decades of costly interventionism.
“For decades, our foreign policy was trapped in a cycle of regime change and nation building,” Gabbard said. “We often imposed our systems on others, misunderstood conflicts, and left with more enemies than allies.”
Gabbard, a former Congresswoman and Army National Guard veteran, highlighted the heavy toll of past actions. “Trillions were spent, countless lives were lost, and greater security threats were created,” she noted.
Under Trump’s second term, the US now prioritizes economic prosperity and regional peace. The shift is visible in recent diplomatic actions, including the Gaza ceasefire and strikes that curbed Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Calling the Gaza truce “fragile,” Gabbard warned that Iran remains a concern, citing renewed nuclear activity. Still, she expressed optimism about the new direction. “The president is committed to this path,” she said.
