FridayOL

Former US Vice President Mike Pence has publicly criticised recent decisions made by former President Donald Trump, sparking debate and raising eyebrows within the Republican party. Speaking on NBC’s ‘Meet the Press’ with Kristen Welker on Sunday, Pence expressed concerns over Trump’s approach to Saudi Arabia and his decision not to visit Israel during a recent trip to the Middle East.

The crux of Pence’s criticism revolves around Trump’s move to appease Saudi Arabia following oil production cuts, a decision many view as prioritizing economic interests over human rights concerns. Pence, a staunch advocate for human rights and a long-time supporter of Israel, argued that the US should maintain a firmer stance against Saudi Arabia’s human rights record. He stated that while strategic partnerships are important, they shouldn’t come at the expense of upholding American values.

“We’ve always stood for human rights and democratic principles around the world,” Pence stated. “And I think it’s important that we continue to do so, even when it’s difficult, especially when it’s difficult.” He further elaborated that the US has a moral obligation to hold nations accountable for their actions, regardless of economic considerations.

Furthermore, Pence voiced his disappointment regarding Trump's omission of Israel from his recent Middle East itinerary. Historically, US presidents have routinely included Israel on such trips, viewing it as a crucial demonstration of support for the nation and a cornerstone of US foreign policy in the region. Pence suggested that the absence of Israel sent a confusing message to allies and adversaries alike.

“Israel has always been a vital ally to the United States, and a visit there would have been a powerful symbol of our unwavering commitment to their security and prosperity,” Pence explained. “I believe that the decision not to include Israel in the trip was a missed opportunity to reaffirm that commitment.”

Pence’s comments represent a significant departure from the often-deferential tone many former officials adopt towards their predecessors. It also highlights a potential rift within the Republican party regarding foreign policy priorities, particularly concerning the balance between economic interests and human rights considerations in the Middle East. Analysts suggest this public disagreement could have implications for the 2024 presidential election, with Pence potentially positioning himself as a more traditional conservative voice.

The interview has already generated considerable discussion online, with supporters of both Pence and Trump weighing in on the merits of their respective arguments. It remains to be seen how Trump will respond to Pence’s criticism, but the exchange underscores the ongoing debate within the Republican party about the best path forward for US foreign policy.

This is not the first time Pence and Trump have publicly differed on policy. Throughout their time in office, there were subtle but noticeable disagreements on issues ranging from trade to healthcare. However, this latest criticism appears to be more pointed and could signal a more significant divergence in their political ideologies.