Henry Kissinger, the former U.S. Secretary of State, passed away at the age of 100, leaving behind a complex and influential legacy. Throughout his career, Kissinger played a dominant role in shaping U.S. foreign policy, particularly during the administrations of Presidents Richard M. Nixon and Gerald Ford. He was known for his diplomatic achievements, such as the secret negotiations that led to the 1973 Paris agreement, ending U.S. military participation in the Vietnam War, and his shuttle diplomacy efforts that stabilized relations between Israel and its Arab neighbors after the 1973 Middle East war.
However, Kissinger's legacy is not without controversy. The Washington Post highlights the high human cost of Kissinger's policies, particularly in Latin America and the Cold War. Kissinger's theory of power prioritized bolstering Washington and its allies over human rights, democracy, and justice. The article points out his support for military regimes in Latin America and the carpet bombing of Cambodia. These policies had devastating consequences and resulted in the loss of countless lives. The author argues that the world should have moved beyond the logic of raw power and emphasizes the importance of guaranteeing human rights and democratic governance.
This article from Daily Kos further explores Kissinger's dark side, specifically his involvement in Chile during the 1970s. Kissinger supported the coup against Salvador Allende and the subsequent brutal regime led by Augusto Pinochet. The article criticizes Kissinger for not speaking out against Pinochet's human rights violations and quotes his callous response. It emphasizes the importance of understanding this dark chapter in history and the impact it had on the Chilean people.
The author of a recent opinion piece in The Washington Post reflects on their personal connection with Henry Kissinger, who supported their World Cup festival in Dupont Circle park. Despite the author's initial appreciation, they later learned about Kissinger's controversial actions and feel shame and disgust. Kissinger's involvement in political schemes resulted in the deaths and injuries of hundreds of thousands of people.
Kissinger's death has sparked reflection and debate, with supporters praising his positive impact and detractors accusing him of war crimes and human rights abuses. His role in the Vietnam War, support for dictators in Latin America, and bombings in Cambodia and Laos are among the controversies surrounding him. Kissinger's legacy in Latin America and the Cold War is a significant aspect of the discussion around his impact on global affairs.
China has paid tribute to Kissinger as an 'old friend' and architect of the establishment of ties between Beijing and Washington. Kissinger visited China more than 100 times and played a crucial role in normalizing Sino-US relations. He was the only US diplomat to directly communicate with top Chinese leaders of different generations. Kissinger's last visit to China took place in July, during a period of strained relations between the two countries. Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed his condolences and acknowledged Kissinger's historical contributions. Many Chinese internet users expressed their condolences and described Kissinger as a promoter and guardian of Sino-US relations. Kissinger's book 'On China' emphasized the importance of understanding Chinese politics and history. Experts highlight Kissinger's dedication to interacting with China as a cornerstone for establishing diplomatic ties. The Chinese Ministry spokesman called for both sides to carry forward Kissinger's strategic vision and work towards a healthy and stable China-US relationship.
In addition to the reactions to Kissinger's death, another diplomat, Peter Tarnoff, also passed away. Tarnoff, a seasoned diplomat who worked behind the scenes for presidents Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton, played a crucial role in various negotiations and diplomatic efforts. He was known for his discreet influence and ability to get the job done. Tarnoff's career included establishing a secret channel to Fidel Castro and helping arrange the escape of U.S. Embassy officials from Iran, which was later depicted in the movie 'Argo'. He served as a confidential assistant to high-profile diplomats and held positions such as president of the Council on Foreign Relations and under secretary for political affairs at the State Department.
Both Kissinger and Tarnoff were influential figures in the realm of global affairs. Their lives and careers reflect the complexities and challenges of diplomacy, as well as the impact that individuals can have on shaping the course of history. Kissinger's influence extended beyond U.S. foreign policy, as he played a significant role in shaping the global elite and the concept of the New World Order. According to an analysis by Seamus Bruner in Breitbart, Kissinger mentored Klaus Schwab, the founder of the World Economic Forum (WEF), and was involved with the Rockefeller dynasty. The article highlights Kissinger's efforts to make population control official U.S. domestic policy and Schwab's desire for identity and order, which led him to establish the WEF. Kissinger's admission that opening Western borders to diverse cultures may have been a mistake is also mentioned. The article suggests that Kissinger, Schwab, and George Soros were born to build a New World Order and references their support for a new international order that includes China. While the article presents Kissinger as a significant figure in the global elite and discusses his impact on various aspects of global governance, it is important to note that this perspective is one among many and has been met with criticism and skepticism.
The deaths of Kissinger and Tarnoff serve as a reminder of the complexities and challenges of diplomacy, as well as the lasting impact that individuals can have on shaping the course of history.
The death of Henry Kissinger highlights the world's need for diplomatic greatness. Kissinger's pragmatism in ending the Vietnam War and his role in the Sino-American thaw are praised. However, the author argues that Kissinger's diplomatic genius would not be effective in resolving the current Gaza conflict due to the religious fanaticism and violence of Hamas. The author suggests that statesmanship will only be relevant in Gaza once Hamas is dislodged, and that Kissinger would have used the vacuum created by Hamas's departure to create a new political energy and international alignment. The author concludes that Gaza's journey from futility to opportunity is underway, but it is premature to believe that the voyage has ended.