Obama’s Failed Diplomatic Game

Leslie Janikowsky / August 04, 2009

“Open hand” is the name of President Obama’s diplomatic strategy in Iran. The administration’s current course of action for Iran is “open negotiations” which offer Iran better relations with the United States if Iran will enter arms control talks. It is a game of give and take. As Secretary Clinton stated in her address to the Foreign Policy Council, the U.S. preferred policy approach is to “lead with diplomacy, even in the cases of our adversaries or nations with whom we disagree.” However, as the administration continues to extend its hand to Iran, Iran continues to ignore or shun it.

The Iranian leadership consistently shows no positive response to U.S. overtures. This is highlighted by the regime’s actions since the contested elections. While Iran recently “released 140 protesters” from prison, many came out with gruesome stories and wounds testifying to their mistreatment. (more…)