Look what the Iraq Study Group came up with. You know, that was a totally nonpartisan group of, you know, 10 wise Americans, you know, some of them Republican, some of then Democrats from different, you know, experiences. They came out with a long list of recommendations. Now, you can say well, I wouldn't agree with that one or wouldn't agree with this one, but the fundamental point they made is that there is no military solution. There is only a political resolution and you've got to bring everybody into the game in order to move it forward, you know. And for whatever reason, this administration rejects that. They won't talk to bad people. That means they won't talk to the Iranians and the Syrians: If they're our enemies, then believe me, I think they are, because they certainly don't wish us any well outcome, then we need to know more about them. I think it's a sign of strength to get into a process with people who you are concerned about their motives, who's really calling the shots. This administration won't do that. So, to a certain extent we're flying blind.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Clinton advocates for political solutions over military ones in Iraq, emphasizing dialogue with enemies as a sign of strength.
- In plain terms
- She says war needs political solutions and talking to enemies shows strength.
- What can you take from it?
- Diplomacy with adversaries is often more effective than military force.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is negotiation always better than fighting?
- What defines strength in foreign policy?
Another view
Talking to adversaries carries risk if they lack good faith.
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