Strategic Assessment

Barack Obama’s presidency appears to be making “engagement” the watchword of its foreign policy and ushering in a new era of engagement in international relations. However, engagement is rather nebulous concept that must be sharpened in order to fulfill its potential and avoid its pitfalls. And while some attempt to engage Iran is certainly indicated by the failure thus far of alternative approaches, engagement stands little chance of success unless all the components of a coherent strategy are worked out. Even then, Obama may eventually face the dilemma posed by the conclusion that regarding Iran, neither engagement nor non-violent coercion will resolve the problem.