politics

Trump has a 'big stick' in Iran. He forgot to bring a brain

More than a century ago, Theodore Roosevelt spoke about his approach to foreign policy with a phrase that has survived generations: “Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far.” The lesson was never simply that America should possess crushing military power. Military power is most effective when used with restraint, credibility, and a clear understanding of what it is supposed to accomplish.

Trump has a 'big stick' in Iran. He forgot to bring a brain

TL;DR

  • Theodore Roosevelt's foreign policy emphasized using military power with restraint and clear objectives.
  • The U.S. possesses significant military power against Iran but has not achieved strategic success.
  • Initial broad commitments regarding military actions against Iran have not been fully realized.