Walid Phares is a Lebanese-American scholar, author, and conservative pundit, widely recognized for his expertise in Middle East studies and counter-terrorism. He served as a foreign policy advisor to Mitt Romney and later to Donald Trump's 2016 presidential campaign and during the transition period. Phares has held academic positions at institutions including Florida Atlantic University and the National Defense University, focusing on global terrorism, radical ideologies, and international relations. He has authored numerous books and articles, and is a frequent media commentator. His background and views have been the subject of considerable scrutiny and controversy. During the Lebanese Civil War, he was associated with the Lebanese Forces, a Christian militia, and has been described by critics as an ideologue and spokesman for the group. Critics allege he promoted sectarian violence and divisive rhetoric. These past associations and his writings on radical Islam have led to accusations of promoting a 'clash of civilizations' narrative and being Islamophobic, particularly from human rights groups and some media outlets. His appointment as a foreign policy advisor to the Trump campaign drew criticism.