Pompeo Calls the U.S. a ‘Force for Good’ in Middle East Speech
- Cairo remarks seek to rebut Obama address from 10 years ago
- Top diplomat will seek new constraints on Iran’s regime
This article is for subscribers only.
Secretary of State Michael Pompeo accused the Obama administration of underestimating the threat posed by Islamic extremism and Iran, delivering a speech in Cairo sharply criticizing President Donald Trump’s predecessor and declaring the U.S. a “force for good” in the region.
Pompeo, speaking to an audience at the American University of Cairo on Thursday, said the Arab world must do more in the fight against extremism, reiterated U.S. support for Israel and declared that America isn’t interested in keeping its troops in the Middle East permanently. He also sought to reassure the region about the administration’s commitment after Trump announced he was withdrawing troops from Syria.