X-Article: Iran Operational Design, Clausewitz, and American Diplomacy
Abstract
Emerging from the nation s recent theater engagements, America must immediately focus on developing a comprehensive strategy to confront Iran. A review of the strategic intellectual framework provided by George Kennan s X-Article is the first step for leaders considering the development of a whole of government approach towards Iran. American policy would be shaped with a hybrid interagency approach of smart and hard power to facilitate the development of a 21st Century X- Article: Iran focused on the presidential elections and the non-violent transformation of the regime followed by a corresponding NPT compliance. The fraudulent election in 2009, a depressed economy, and the emergence of the Green Movement comprise a set of conditions, that if effectively supported could alter the character of the repressive regime. The geo-political transitions within the Arab Spring provide a framework for a U.S strategy that fundamentally leverages diplomacy in an effort to avoid a military conflict with Iran. The limited time horizon requires the integration of operational design and Clausewitzian concepts of the center of gravity and the trinity to rapidly focus American resources in order to achieve stated national interests.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA589234
Entities
People
- Patrick D. Frank
Organizations
- United States Army War College