What event led some to question the U.S. commitment to the Middle East?

The event that led some to question the U.S. commitment to the Middle East is the withdrawal from Iraq. This event marked a significant turning point in U.S. foreign policy in the region. After nearly nine years of military involvement, the decision to withdraw American troops was seen by some as a retreat or abandonment of the region, leading to concerns regarding stability and the rising influence of groups like ISIS in the aftermath.

The withdrawal was perceived by some observers as indicative of a reluctance to engage deeply in Middle Eastern affairs, especially when coupled with the ongoing complexities of the Syrian Civil War and the Arab Spring uprisings. Critics argued that removing the military presence could create a power vacuum, challenging earlier assertions about U.S. resolve and strategic interest in the area.

While the death of Osama Bin Laden was a significant moment in the fight against terrorism, it did not instigate as much broader questioning of U.S. commitment compared to the implications of the Iraq withdrawal, which had wide-reaching consequences for regional politics and U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.