No president -- no matter how reformist or conservative in orientation -- will be able to force through significant changes in Iranian foreign policy without the acquiescence of other power centers, most notably the supreme leader. Full Story »
Posted by Derek Hawkins
Perhaps too lenient at some points, this is an overall compelling case for rejecting the previous administration's "conventional wisdom" about relations with Iran. In a few places it seems like we're expected to take the author's word for it, so to speak, based on her experience in diplomacy, but for the most part she offers sound reasoning and shows a nuanced understanding of the issue.
An excellent opinion piece from someone with deep knowledge of dealing with Iran. Takes a complex topic, and using the question and answer format highlights the key issues in framing US-Iranian policy.
An opinion piece by a person qualified to speak. This urges a comprehensive approach to Iran and notes that many American opinions about the country are simplistic and wrong.
It will be difficult to establish cooperative relations between the USA and Iran because so many negative factors exist, on both sides.
If Obama is going to do new-think in Iran, the initiatives of the author is a good place to start. The foreign policy that this country has in place since the hostage situation is a joke. If we allow Saudi Arabia to govern like it was the stone age, we should do exactly like the author says and use common since instead of a iron hand and negotiate as we would any sovereign nation.
It seems like every article you read is something about Obama doing something about something. A quick reminder: He just got elected, give the guy a break
Outstanding analysis of recent US foreign policy toward Iran, with clear recommendations for moving toward better US-Iranian relations. Astonishing details are provided, including that Condoleezza Rice thought Khatami was not a good negotiating partner for the US to deal with. Khatami sought to restore normal US/Iranian relations, but Bush administration stupidity blew the opportunity.
Obama should study this piece carefully. I agree the US should engage immediately with Iran, and reopening the respective embassies would be a logical starting point. Iran seeks stability in Iraq, and is hostile to the Taleban and al-Qaeda. The US should be encouraging Iran, Russia and China to work together to achieve minimal stability in Afghanistan - - why should the US taxpayer spend hundreds of billions on an ill-conceived military campaign causing more instability by the week?
There is a need now for a new diplomatic approach towards Iran in order to compel it to play a more meaningful and responsible role in the region.
Retrieving Comments
