While global competitors like China and Russia present external challenges to America's global standing, the most surprising threat comes from within, as the US government actively undermines its own core strengths. The source highlights the Trump administration's "war on Harvard" as a prime example, illustrating how efforts to attack leading universities—through actions like threatening research funds and taxing endowments—damage America's world-leading academic and research institutions. This self-destructive pattern also extends to policies that discourage international students and talent, a crucial advantage that has historically fueled American innovation and economic growth. The author argues that this internal conflict, rather than external pressures, represents the most significant danger to America's unique global appeal and continued success.