The downing of the Iranian Airbus was another manifestation of our tragic policy in the Persian Gulf. It is time to reevaluate our stand in that region in order to establish a sound policy. As a superpower, it is our responsibility to provide gains and/or prevent harm for all parties. Thus far, our presence has only perpetuated the violence.
If the U.S. cares for genuine peace, it has to work out a policy based on facts and long-term interests. But peace cannot be obtained by a policy of international intimidation or by excluding the Soviet Union as an influential power. On the contrary, for every loss of influence by the U.S. as a result of poor policy-making decisions, there is potential gain of influence by the Soviet Union. The following points need to be emphasized.
- Iran is indispensable for U.S. interests and for regional and international stability. There must be a genuine approach towards understanding Iran and its Islamic Revolution.
- Islam is now an element in the structure of the U.S. which has to be considered in its national and international policies. Islam and Muslims can be an enormous constructive element in world peace and prosperity. It is erroneous to assume that dealing with and even supporting a secular regime is better for the interests of the U.S. and the West.
