“Welcome to the Middle East, Mr. President: Biden Embarks on Risky Journey

Today marks a historic moment in America’s relations with the Middle East — President Biden is scheduled to travel to the region in order to forge a path forward. However, behind the screens of diplomatic negotiations and photo ops with world leaders, Biden must face the physical risks that accompany such a trip to a war-torn region. The President is set to arrive in Iraq and Israel, two of the most unstable countries in the Middle East. Clearly, a warzone is no place for a President, so aides and advisors must be, and are, preparring for the potential threats at every turn. Biden’s Secret Service contingency is ensuring that adequate security is in place at all times, with helicopter support, bodyguards and emergency evacuation plans at the ready. The President’s motorcade and military aircraft will also be escorted by local security forces with the most up-to-date weaponry and tactics. Special forces will be looking for anything suspicious to guarantee that Biden will be able to complete the trip safely. Nevertheless, the physical risks remain. Iraq and Israel are infamously volatile countries. Terrorist attacks, roadside bombs, kidnappings and suicide bombings are all realistic threats. As a leader in these two countries, Biden is even more of a target. He must remain vigilant during his trip and trust those responsible for his safety. By taking the trip to the Middle East, Biden is setting the tone for his presidency. He shows that he is willing to take risks and make tough decisions to set this country on a better path. It is certainly a risky proposition, but one that demonstrates courage and conviction. It is a sign that the world should take note of.