Talk to Iran

Mr. President,

Because no one really knows the extent of the Administration's surveillance of its citizens, I don't know if you are aware that I'm not a fan of your work. Since the early days of the 2000 presidential campaign, I've preferred nearly any alternative to you.

But, contrary to what your advisors say, it's time to come together and solve our nation's problems and avert future chaos. Actually, it's not time; it was time to come together a long time ago.

We've read in recent weeks that Iran has sought out a meeting with a U.S. representative to discuss, among other things, the "situation" in Iraq. Almost immediately, your National Security Advisor Stephen Hadley last week said publicly that the invitation was a ploy and, in a press briefing on the President's trip to India and Pakistan, mentioned the "challenge that Iran poses for stability in the region." Well done! Not that your Administration has a strong track record of diplomacy, but can't we at least give it a try? Today, the Administration renewed its skepticism.

Does Iran's posturing pose a "challenge" to stability? Perhaps. As does the chaos in Iraq (politely speaking), the posturing of the "government" in Saudia Arabia. But further isolation of Iran is not the answer, is it?

In today's editorial, the UAE's Khaleej Times makes the crucial observation:

[The US's] suspicions cannot be without basis.

However, the potential benefits of a US-Iran dialogue far outweigh these apprehensions. First and foremost, a possible US-Iran engagement can bring peace and stability to Iraq which is not only the immediate concern of the US and Iraqis but also of all the countries in the region. Even if Iran, responding to such an initiative, manages to control its own borders, it could dry off vital support to Iraq insurgency. Secondly and more importantly, a dialogue between the US and Iran could create opportunities to resolve the issue of Teheran’s nuclear programme. Which would not only address the international community’s — and West’s — concerns over Iran but also spare the volatile Middle East another dangerous and completely avoidable showdown...They should sit and talk Iraq before this endless conflict spills over to the rest of the region.

Emphasis added.

I guess all I'm saying is that it's not in our nation's best interest when Iran, of all countries, is more willing to at least try to work toward peace in the Middle East than we are. I pine for the days when our nation was confident in it's global position and negotiation abilities that it welcomed the opportunity to meet and discuss difficult issues with its would-be enemies. Nixon went to China; Bush's advisors would have our president run from Tehran. Negotiation, while difficult (especially for an Administration focused on PR rather than substance), can be a demonstration of strength not weakness.
- posted by C @ 6:01:00 PM