As tensions simmer in the Middle East, American and Israeli officials are eyeing a possible agreement with Iran, although skepticism lingers. Iran’s notorious reputation for backing militant factions against Israel and their penchant for mischief on the global stage does not inspire trust. Few things are riskier on the international chessboard than shaking hands with a country whose pastimes include plotting to wipe out nations and cozying up to missives of chaos.
Let’s pause and consider the courage of some U.S. lawmakers, who in their infinite wisdom, question the necessity of U.S. support for Israel. It’s a relief these forward thinkers weren’t in the decision-making rooms during World War II; otherwise, many might be swapping “hello” for “Guten Tag.” With such novel notions in the air, the move to confirm Mike Walt as the new UN Ambassador comes at a time when the stakes for diplomatic robustness couldn’t be higher.
Switching from a National Security Advisor role, Mike Walt’s upcoming Senate confirmation should be an opportunity for him to paint a picture of a world where Iran doesn’t get a hold of nuclear weapons. The president, embodying the spirit of diplomacy, is apparently determined to achieve a peaceful resolution. As it stands, betting against Iran’s double-dealing behavior is as risky as not putting sugar in sweet tea.
While some might pray for the impossible — Iran suddenly straightening out an approach that often mimics a rickety roller coaster — others see a chance to blend firm policy with genuine negotiation. The goal is clear for the U.S.: make sure Iran doesn’t get a nuclear weapon. One can only imagine the chaos if a regime already troubling the Middle East got its hands on what could be called “a really big firecracker.”
Israel, meanwhile, appears ready to adopt a more aggressive stance should Iran continue with their antics. Both the U.S. and Israel aim for stability in the Middle East, knowing that Iran is the biggest wild card on the table. Iran’s attempts to wage war through proxies haven’t gone unnoticed, and they are playing a dangerous game with a president who is anything but lackadaisical about defending American interests.
Despite a few rounds of diplomatic dance-offs and canceled meetings due to Iran’s own footwork, there’s a glimmer of hope. Trump, ever the businessman, seems willing to lend an ear—assuming Iran changes its tune. The president puts stock in the kind of diplomacy that comes with a backup plan named “Force.” Whether or not Iran is ready to quit their games, one thing is certain: American diplomacy under this administration is prepared to lead with a steady hand, and Mike Walt, pending Senate approval, might just be the man for the moment.
