Arab Americans in U.S. Foreign Policy
By: Adam Abdel-Qader / Arab America Contributing Writer
In the realm of U.S. foreign policy, Arab Americans have emerged as key figures whose expertise and experiences shape crucial decisions on a global scale. These influential individuals bridge the gap between cultures, bringing invaluable perspectives and navigating the complex dynamics between the United States and the Arab world.
Here are some of the most influential Arab Americans who have worked and are working in U.S. foreign policy!
Trailblazers in Foreign Policy:
1. Reema Dodin
Reema Dodin is a Palestinian-American currently serving as the Deputy Assistant to the President and Deputy Director of the Office of Legislative Affairs. She has been heavily involved in shaping legislative policies on foreign affairs.
With a political science degree from Berkeley and a law degree from the University of Illinois, she has actively facilitated legislative decisions regarding foreign policy for the Biden administration.
Ms. Dodin also served as a member of the Council of Foreign Relations. She’s an active fellow for the Truman National Security Project and the New Leaders Council.
During her tenure, she played a significant role in shaping policies related to the Middle East region and the Arab world. Her Arab heritage gives her unique insights into the complexities of the Middle East and its extremely relevant politics, which she has continuously leveraged to formulate effective strategies and solutions.
2. Hady Amr
Hady Amr, another influential Arab American, previously worked as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Israeli and Palestinian Affairs within the U.S. Department of State under the Obama administration. Currently, he is the special representative for Palestinian affairs since November 22nd, 2022. The new position marks a significant improvement in relations with Palestine.
Born to Lebanese parents, he began playing an instrumental role in negotiating ceasefires between Israel and Palestine on numerous occasions. His deep-rooted understanding of both cultures enables him to successfully navigate tense situations, subsequently helping maintain peace in such a volatile region.
3. Selwa Roosevelt
Selwa Roosevelt was renowned as the Chief of Protocol with one of the lengthiest tenures in U.S. history, from 1982 to 1989, during President Ronald Reagan’s administration. Being an Arab American with Lebanese roots, she utilized her influential position to enhance diplomatic ties between America and Arab nations through various diplomatic protocols.
Her profound expertise in handling global affairs played a significant role in augmenting bilateral relationships across borders. In the early part of her career, she was a Journalist in Washington, D.C. Eventually, after a career in the CIA and a writing position for the Washington Post, she was appointed Chief of Protocol.
With a lifelong career filled with awards for public service, she embodies the true spirit of a dedicated public servant and proud Arab American.
4. George J. Mitchell
George J. Mitchell is a Lebanese-American politician, lawyer, and diplomat. Best known for his work towards achieving peace in Northern Ireland during the Clinton administration, his notable efforts in attaining this peace resulted in the prestigious recognition of a Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Mitchell’s expertise extended beyond European affairs as he assumed a pivotal position as Special Envoy for Middle East Peace during President Obama’s administration. With Lebanese roots, Mitchell showcased remarkable comprehension and adept diplomacy while navigating disputes among nations from the Middle East region and the Arab world.
His lifelong service to the United States is a clear testament to his ambition to bring peace to Ireland, the Middle East, and the rest of the globe.
5. Philip Habib
Ambassador Philip Habib was a Lebanese-American and career diplomat with the U.S. State Department. Habib held various positions during his tenure, including under Secretary of State for Political Affairs and acting Secretary of State.
As a person with Lebanese heritage, he was crucial in mediating conflicts between Israel, Lebanon, and Syria during the 1980s. In recognition of his dedication and achievements, he was bestowed with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
His remarkable talent for negotiating peaceful agreements in the Middle East was undoubtedly enhanced by his profound understanding of Arab and Middle Eastern culture. In short, this understanding was derived from his cultural background concerning these regions.
6. Maher Bitar
Maher Bitar has made a significant mark on history by being appointed as the Senior Director for Intelligence Programs at the National Security Council by President Joe Biden. This appointment is groundbreaking, as he became the first Muslim Arab American to hold this prestigious position.
Hailing from Palestinian immigrant parents and having obtained degrees from distinguished universities such as Oxford and Georgetown Law, Bitar has been integral in formulating crucial U.S. policies about the Israel and Palestine conflict throughout his career within government agencies like the NSC.
His critical thinking abilities and extensive knowledge of regional dynamics have greatly influenced numerous critical decisions regarding Middle East affairs.
It is exciting to see what’s in store next regarding public service for the highly accomplished Palestinian American.
7. Marcelle Wahba
Marcelle Wahba is a 22-year career diplomat with work primarily involved in the Middle East. From 2001 to 2004, the Egyptian-American diplomat served as the United States Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates. This appointment marked history during the second Bush administration as she became the first female ambassador appointed in the Arabian Peninsula.
Her deep knowledge of Arab culture was utilized successfully to enhance relations between the U.S. and UAE throughout her term.
Now she is a distinguished fellow at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, D.C. She is also a director of a business consulting firm, DerMar International LLC.
Conclusion:
These trailblazers’ unique insights were informed by their Arab heritage. These individuals have been instrumental in shaping U.S. relations within the Middle East and beyond. They exemplify how diverse backgrounds can enrich and diversify perspectives in policymaking, further underscoring the importance of representation and inclusivity in decision-making realms such as foreign policy.
Please note that this is not an exhaustive and comprehensive list of all the incredibly talented Arab Americans who serve their country regarding foreign policy. While there are many other Arab Americans who have made and continue to make significant contributions in the field of U.S. foreign policy, Arab America invites you to research and appreciate the achievements of those not listed in the article as well.
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