Lessons from British/Iran Hostage Crisis

WORLD PEACE! Courtesy Shanup Gundecha

The successful resolution of the British/Iranian naval hostage crisis once again highlights the need for tactful diplomacy to solve problems that may appear intractable.

Whatever the provocation, the concerned parties must talk instead of saber-rattling which seems to have become a favourite pastime of the present residents of the White House.

One wonders how long the American Congress and the public tolerate this irresponsible and adventurist behaviour that endangers world peace and harmony.

Even well meaning actions (even in the past) of the US administration have been misunderstood. Its behaviour/action would become suspect because it was never explained properly.

Either it was impatience or incompetence or arrogance or all mixed up. At this point some may also ask why should America explain? This question itself explains it all.

Over the years this had a multiplying effect. Not only spurring nations on the path of anti-Americanism, but strengthening the hands of militants and terrorists.

Even the political leaders in the world are shying away from calling a spade a spade. Are we witnessing the dawn of an age of bullies, liars and bloated and unconcerned leadership and bureaucracy?

The United Nations, which gobbles up billions from even poverty stricken nations, has refrained from effectively supporting urgent legitimate causes. Like any other bureaucracy, it has unfortunately begin to appear more and more self-perpetuating…

It is time the United Nations reformed itself, or made to, and played a meaningful role instead of allowing leaders such as Mr George W. Bush to monopolise the world stage and call the shots.

To develop any sensible strategy to fight terrorism, more/different people have to be accommodated on the discussion table to devise a workable plan.

Ego and arrogance has no place in this vital activity.

The rise of militancy/terrorism requires new forms of international diplomacy. This different ‘war’ has taken a heavy toll of the morale of the soldiers.

India had been telling the world for long that no single army/nation can take on highly motivated militants/terrorists. The sharing of talent/experience by different armies/nations could be of great benefit. But no one has listened so far or thought of sharing with India the experiences gained in its long fight against terrorism.

And now comes the news of the fatigue syndrome in the American army. Please see my post on this subject…here.

In this context I recommend an old Time magazine article “The End of Cowboy Diplomacy”. Please click here to read…