Center for American Progress

Trump sparked the Iran crisis. Now he must walk away from the brink of war
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Trump sparked the Iran crisis. Now he must walk away from the brink of war

Michael Fuchs argues that while President Trump's policies have escalated tensions in the Middle East and brought the United States to the brink of war, the only responsible path forward with Iran is de-escalation and diplomacy.

In the midst of a dangerous national security crisis like the situation with Iran, the chances for peace often rest on one side hitting the brakes.

It is time for the United States to de-escalate. That is what a true global leader would do.

In the wake of the Iranian missile attack on Iraqi bases where US and Iraqi troops are stationed, the messages coming from both governments are mixed. It’s hard to interpret any attack – even if in retaliation – as anything but dangerous and provocative. But the lack of casualties from its attack could allow Iran a face-saving way to show strength while avoiding massive escalation.

The above excerpt was originally published in The Guardian. Click here to view the full article.

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Authors

Michael Fuchs

Senior Fellow