You are a foreign policy advisor for the Biden administration. You have been tasked with evaluating the current US foreign policy in the Middle East and submitting a 3-4 page memo to the president analyzing the current policy and offering two potential alternatives. The policy memo should be structured as follows:
Brief Introduction: Describe current key events, providing an overview of the most important news from the last few weeks.
Current US Policy in the Middle East: Provide an overview of the policy, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses. Avoid focusing on US relations with any one particular government.
Alternative Policy Options: Introduce two distinctive alternatives that could enhance US positions and interests. Emphasize the main strengths and weaknesses of each option.
Recommendation: Conclude with your recommendation and the rationale behind it, including the option to maintain the current policy.
Tips:
a. Ensure alternative policy options are serious, realistic, and feasible for implementation.
b. Exercise caution when using internet sources, evaluating them for credibility.
c. Avoid plagiarism. Use direct quotes sparingly and only when necessary, with proper citations.
d. Utilize publications such as Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, the Economist, and reports from think tanks for policy recommendations, there is no need to invent the wheels.
Format: The paper should be 800-1000 words, double-spaced, and typed on one side of 8.5″ x 11″ white paper. Include a title page with the title, your name, the date, and the course number. Use an 11 or 12 point font, preferably Times. A bibliography is required on a separate page at the end of the paper (not included in the page total). Citations should follow a recognized format (APA, AEA, or APSA). Consult with me for citation questions, as improper citation will result in a letter grade deduction. Failure to cite will result in a grade no higher than a C. Grammar and spelling errors, while not specifically penalized, can detract from the clarity and professionalism of your work.
