Can a sovereign government be declared a terrorist nation? Can any such nation’s army general be called a terrorist and eliminated in an alien territory? I guess the answer will be a no.
Merely because two nations are not on the same page does not make either one a pariah and empower one to act in a unilateral manner that will plunge the world into another world war. Historical differences exist between many African nations, the Koreas, China and Taiwan, India and Pakistan, Israel and Palestine and many such. But countries, in their compulsion to coexist, subscribe to the UN charter and adhere to some basic norms and principles.
The method and manner in which the US has eliminated General Quassem Soleimani call for deep introspection by the US. The UN and US well-wishers have read the riot act to the US President, about the misgivings in their assumed righteousness, acting as a capricious policeman of the world.
The act of killing the General was outside the US territories, in a foreign land. The tears of Iran’s Supreme leader during the mourning must convey the nation’s resolve in retaliating. I did write earlier that Iran is no match militarily for the mighty US. To me, such a situation is more complicated and dangerous, as surprise lone-wolf attacks would needlessly result in loss of lives of innocents, unlike in military warfare.
The sheer might and strength of the US must make it more responsible and restrained in maintaining world peace, without causing provocations and sliding into war. It seems the US arms industry is itching to test its latest additions, laser-guided missiles and weapons of destruction. The impeachment process initiated against the US President and the forthcoming Presidential elections makes the timing perfect for alibis, to flex muscles and start a war, wherever. Iran, I guess has merely come in the crosshairs at an inopportune time.
The US killed a General who was in convoy, in which many died. Iran retaliated by a missile attack in their neighbouring country, where the US base existed, causing a disquiet for Iran. A few could have been killed in the retaliatory attack as well. The matter must end here and now, by both parties sitting across the table and negotiating peace. A nuclear Iran is in nobody’s interest and would prove expensive for the region, particularly for the Gulf region and Israel. I hope the US President would evolve as a statesman and avert another prolonged war.
I hope it is time for countries like India to come forward and extend its diplomatic skills in arriving at an amicable and peaceful solution for the betterment of the world. A failure in a peaceful solution could be disastrous for all, a situation none can afford. I hope a few statesmen could be still left in the world!
Sampath Kumar
Intrépide Voix
