Staged International Emergencies Keep Stripping Credibility From U.S. Diplomacy

For those observing the current administration’s foreign policy, the recent Christmas Day bombing in Nigeria, labeled as a measure to "protect Christians from ISIS," offers little clarity. It conforms to a repetitive narrative, yet fails to align with the complexities of reality. The violence in Nigeria stems from land disputes, criminal activities, and deep-seated state instability, with religion serving merely as a backdrop for these conflicts. Characterizing this crisis solely as Christian genocide is not only oversimplified but also misleading. Moreover, the bombing raises questions about the administration's own national security strategies, which denounce vague historical tactics. Without a coherent political framework, this action appears disconnected from clear strategic objectives. Additionally, while the U.S. imposes visa restrictions on Nigerians, claiming to support them from abroad risks undermining its moral standing. This selective outrage also contrasts starkly against the ongoing atrocities in Sudan, revealing inconsistencies in priorities. Ultimately, mechanisms for genuine engagement rather than arbitrary military actions would foster long-lasting stability.