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The Financial Times


Clinton’s criticism does nothing to advance US cause
Published: May 24 2010 03:00 | Last updated: May 24 2010 03:00


From Mr Fariborz S. Fatemi.

Sir, Regarding your article “Clinton attacks Turkey-Brazil deal with Tehran” (May 19): Why is the ghost of the Bush/Cheney administration policy towards Iran still rattling around? After all, the president of the US, much to his credit, has said on numerous occasions “our offer of comprehensive diplomatic contacts and dialogue stands”.
Yet, the antagonism that has been the hallmark of Iran policy during the past 30 years continues unabated.
Instead of criticising Turkey and Brazil, the secretary of state should be thanking them for putting her “smart diplomacy” to work. Why is she so determined to continue the actions that perpetuate mistrust and hatred? Whose interest does it serve? Certainly not America’s.
Imagine the results if all her efforts had been to engage rather than to punish. Now that Turkey and Brazil have given the US an opening, it is in the national security and economic interests of the US to take advantage of that work, special pleadings notwithstanding.
Common sense and the urgency of now demand deeds and not just words from the Obama administration. The administration must begin that promised dialogue, based on mutual respect, and bring an end to the hostility separating the US and Iran.
Fariborz S. Fatemi,
McLean, VA, US
(Former Professional Staff Member, House Foreign Affairs Committee, Senate Foreign Relations Committe