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Fragility of diplomatic engagement

61 1
24.06.2025

In his book, Diplomacy, former US Secretary of State Dr Henry Kissinger writes that diplomacy is the "art of enhancing power." Further, he states, "When statesmen want to gain time, they offer to talk." He believes, "The bargaining position of the victor always diminishes with time. Whatever is not exacted during the shock of defeat becomes increasingly difficult to attain later."

Termed the art of negotiations, diplomacy however failed to prevent the recent conflicts - between Israel and Iran war; Russia and Ukraine; and, India and Pakistan.

According to AI "Diplomatic engagement refers to the practice of actively communicating, negotiating, and building relationships with other nations and their representatives to achieve specific foreign policy goals. This engagement can involve governments, international organisations, and even non-state actors, and it plays a crucial role in maintaining peace, promoting cooperation, and addressing global challenges."

When US President Donald Trump abruptly left the G-7 summit held in Canada this past week and used highly undiplomatic language threatening Iran of dire consequences for not surrendering unconditionally, it shows how fragile the power of diplomacy is. By rendering support to the Israeli aggression against Iran, the US President adheres to what Jewish state wants: complete destruction of the Iranian nuclear programme and regime change in Tehran. Other G-7 leaders also supported Israel and its attack on Iran. It seems, the West instead of 'peace' wants to promote 'war' diplomacy. But using diplomacy to coerce Iran and relegate before Israel will........

© The Express Tribune