By Dalia Al-Aqidi

For much of the past decade, American foreign policy has felt confused, cautious and often reactive. Allies were unsure where the US stood. Adversaries tested limits. Too often, decisions seemed driven by short-term political pressures rather than a clear long-term strategy, creating a vacuum in global leadership. In that space, rivals like China, Russia and Iran moved more aggressively to expand their influence, while partners in Europe and the Middle East began questioning whether Washington was still willing and able to lead.

In this context, a strong argument can be made that Marco Rubio is emerging as one of the most effective secretaries of state in modern American history. Not because of dramatic gestures or media attention but because he has brought back something essential to US diplomacy: strategic seriousness.

Rubio understands a basic truth that many policymakers lost sight of: foreign policy is not about being liked. It is about power, security and responsibility. The purpose of American diplomacy is not to seek applause but to defend national interests, stand with allies and stop threats before they turn into conflicts.

The world Rubio faces is more dangerous than at any time since the end of the Cold War. China is expanding its economic and military reach across Asia, Africa and Latin America. Russia continues to challenge the global order through aggression and coercion. Iran fuels instability across the Middle East through proxy militias and ideological warfare. At the same time, international institutions are weaker, global trust is lower and conflicts spread faster than before.

The Florida politician, who has spent more than half........

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