David Rothkopf : After Egypt slaughter , U.S. response was criticized as puny , impotent . He says cutting funds might feel good , but will cede U.S. leverage to Arab nations offering aid . He says real impact requires strong political , economic diplomacy at highest levels . Rothkopf : The United States has been reluctant to use military force in the Middle East because of its perception that it would be perceived as an act of aggression against Israel and a threat to American allies like Saudi Arabia.
David Rothkopf : After Egypt slaughter , U.S. response was criticized as puny , impotent . He says cutting funds might feel good , but will cede U.S. leverage to Arab nations offering aid . He says real impact requires strong political , economic diplomacy at highest levels . Rothkopf : U.S. has choice : embrace risks of engagement , or be passive , accept less clout .