Innovative Diplomacy: A New Approach Towards Iran
Abstract
"For a secure and hopeful life, the world needs innovative approaches and measures. Let us build a collective coalition for peace instead of war." This quote comes not from Secretary of State Colin Powell or President George W. Bush but from Ali Mohammad Khatami, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Although President Khatami was not speaking directly to the United States, his call for "innovative approaches and measures" is exactly what is needed in the United States' pursuit of a workable and productive foreign policy strategy towards Iran. In the introduction to the 2002 National Security Strategy, President Bush states, In the new world we have entered, the only path to peace and security is the path of action. For the past 25 years, the majority of action taken by the United States with respect to Iran has been sanctions, harsh and inflammatory rhetoric, and political isolation, all of which have proven ineffective in making Iran a contributing member of the international community. It is time for new (innovative) action. With the shadow of Saddam Hussein removed from the Persian Gulf, the United States should seize the opportunity to come out from its "house on the hill", and take the first steps in redefining and reshaping its policies and attitudes towards Iran. Instead of relying on a status quo strategy that could be categorized as coercive containment the United States' "path of action" should be a strategy of cooperative engagement. An effective engagement strategy must begin with an understanding of what has shaped, and continues to drive, Iran's attitudes, behavior, and policies toward the United States. Contrary to popular thought, Iranian foreign policy is no longer based on ideology but on national interests and nationalism.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA441591
Entities
People
- J. C. Kennedy
Organizations
- National War College