As an American, I’m increasingly troubled by our country’s role in Middle Eastern foreign policy. Despite their domestic differences, both major political parties continue to follow a strategy of military intervention, regime change, and arms deals that destabilize regions and cost countless lives. Watching these policies unfold year after year, it’s difficult not to feel disillusioned.
Once again, we’re faced with candidates from the Democratic and Republican parties, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, neither of whom promises a meaningful shift away from this destructive path. Both candidates represent parties with a long history of interventionist policies that have harmed innocent lives abroad and left our veterans struggling with trauma here at home.
I recognize that change won’t come overnight. It will take time for a third party to rise as a real alternative to the Democrats and Republicans. But we have to start somewhere—just as others have throughout history. I’ve often heard the argument that “there is no alternative to the Awami League in Bangladesh because other parties are weaker or worse.” But a student-led revolution proved that idea wrong when a repressive government was forced out and its leader, Sheikh Hasina, had to flee. This shows that change can happen when people unite and push for it.
For those disillusioned with U.S. foreign policy, we have two strong third-party candidates this year: Jo Jorgensen from the Libertarian Party and Jill Stein from the Green Party. While I respect both candidates, Jill Stein stands out because of the Green Party’s clear anti-war stance.
Debate on voting for a third party has also gained momentum among American Muslims, with respected scholars like Yasir Qadhi weighing in. In the video below, he highlights that a third-party vote sends a powerful message to the major parties, showing them that they have failed to address the values and needs of minority communities, particularly those of Muslims.
Here’s why I’m voting Green in 2024, and why I encourage others to consider it:
1. An Anti-War Platform
The Green Party’s commitment to peace is a primary reason for choosing Jill Stein. Our involvement in the Middle East has often been justified under the banner of democracy or national security, yet these interventions frequently lead to human rights abuses and suffering for ordinary people. The Green Party’s platform aligns with my belief that America should step back from policies that perpetuate endless conflict.
2. Prioritizing Diplomacy Over Military Spending
Both major parties continue to increase military spending, creating a defense budget that overshadows funding for healthcare, education, and climate action. Jill Stein advocates for reallocating resources away from defense spending and toward social services, reducing our financial and moral debt from unnecessary wars.
3. A Shift in Foreign Policy
The Green Party envisions a foreign policy that prioritizes diplomacy, international cooperation, and respect for sovereignty over unilateral action. This kind of policy can restore America’s image abroad and foster a more peaceful world. The Green Party consistently opposes interventions that put American lives and taxpayer dollars at risk without ethical justification.
4. The Importance of Starting Somewhere
If we want a truly representative democracy, we can’t keep waiting for change to come from the same parties that have failed us. A vote for Jill Stein is a small but powerful step toward a larger movement. It sends a clear message to the major parties: both of you have failed to deliver the peace and security Americans need. Just as we’ve seen in history, even an “impossible” movement can gather strength over time if people believe in it.
By voting for Jill Stein, I’m choosing to challenge a system that, for too long, has left us with few choices for ethical foreign policy. It’s a message that we cannot continue to pick between two parties that perpetuate endless wars with no clear goals. To everyone feeling disillusioned, this is our chance to begin. Let’s do it—for a peaceful, just America and a brighter future for us all.
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