Q. No. 7. Discuss the main features of the foreign policy of David Cameron with special reference to Middle East.

 Main Features of David Cameron’s Foreign Policy with Special Reference to the Middle East

David Cameron served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 2010 to 2016. His foreign policy was shaped by global events, particularly in the Middle East, where he faced challenges related to instability, terrorism, and military interventions.

1. Key Principles of Cameron’s Foreign Policy

a. Focus on National Security:

Cameron prioritized national security,

aiming to protect the UK from global threats, particularly terrorism. His foreign policy was driven by the need to combat extremist groups like ISIS and prevent the spread of radicalization.

b. Strong Alliances:

Cameron worked to maintain and strengthen the UK’s relationships with key international allies, including the United States and NATO. He believed in using diplomacy alongside military strength to address global challenges.

c. Humanitarian Interventions:

He advocated for military interventions on humanitarian grounds, aiming to prevent atrocities and protect civilians in conflict zones, particularly in the Middle East.

2. Middle East Policy

a. The Arab Spring (2011):

During Cameron’s time in office, the Arab Spring uprisings spread across the Middle East. Cameron supported democratic movements in the region but faced challenges when these movements led to instability and civil wars. His government provided diplomatic and, in some cases, military support to rebel groups in Libya and Syria.

b. Intervention in Libya (2011):

Cameron played a key role in the NATO-led intervention in Libya, which aimed to protect civilians during the uprising against Muammar Gaddafi’s regime. While the intervention helped topple Gaddafi, it also led to long-term instability in the country, which has been a subject of criticism.

c. Response to the Syrian Civil War:

Cameron called for military action against the Assad regime in Syria, accusing it of using chemical weapons. However, a 2013 vote in the UK Parliament rejected British involvement in direct military action. Later, Cameron supported limited airstrikes against ISIS in Syria and Iraq as part of an international coalition.

3. Counterterrorism and the Fight Against ISIS

a. Military Campaign Against ISIS:

Cameron’s government actively participated in the international fight against ISIS, carrying out airstrikes in Iraq and later in Syria. He viewed ISIS as a major threat to global and British security and worked closely with the US and other allies to combat the group.

b. Preventing Radicalization:

Cameron also focused on preventing radicalization at home. His foreign policy on the Middle East was linked to domestic security, as he sought to prevent British citizens from joining extremist groups like ISIS.

4. Relations with Key Middle Eastern Countries

a. Diplomatic Ties with Gulf States:

Cameron maintained strong diplomatic and economic relationships with Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. While these ties were important for trade and security cooperation, they were also controversial due to concerns about human rights in those countries.

b. Support for Israel:

Cameron upheld strong relations with Israel, supporting its right to defend itself while also advocating for a peaceful two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

5. Conclusion

David Cameron’s foreign policy, particularly in the Middle East, was defined by military interventions, counterterrorism efforts, and balancing diplomatic relations with key regional powers. While his government sought to promote stability and security, his interventions in Libya and Syria drew both support and criticism for their long-term consequences.