Abstract:
(Republished after minor editing)
This paper explores US-Jordan diplomacy, focusing on key areas of counterterrorism, economic development, and peacebuilding. Evaluating diplomatic initiatives under scholar David Lake’s principal-agent theory, it asserts the success of the United States as the “principal” and Jordan as the “agent” state in aligning interests. It also argues that US aid, intelligence, and diplomatic efforts contributed to Jordan’s internal stability and its geopolitical role in facilitating Israel-Palestine talks. Despite challenges, the alignment of interests is crucial for buffering against regional instability and the rise of religious fundamentalism. The achievements highlight effective the United States’ global leadership but also underscore dilemmas amid citizen demands for democracy in Jordan.
Main Author: Zhuangyan Shi
Co-authors: Hyeeun Lee, Jaxon Xie, Seth Jessoo Kang
Research Paper Type: IR Evaluative Paper
Access Link:
