Moving Beyond Coercive Diplomacy: A New Policy Approach Toward Iran’s Nuclear Ambitions

Abstract

This article reviews recent coercive measures taken by the United States in order to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and argues that an engagement policy is more likely to achieve success. Coercive approaches have included threatening a military strike, levying UN sanctions, and supporting EU economic offers, but they have not been successful in encouraging Iran to change its present course. Although the current administration is pursuing an engagement policy, it is more likely to achieve success if it articulates its approach with more substance and precision. This should consist of two dimensions. Firstly, the United States should encourage Russia to be at the forefront of diplomatic efforts since its strategic position to both the United States and Iran makes it an appropriate mediator on the nuclear issue. Secondly, the United States must strengthen its democracy promotion efforts directly among the Iranian people, which will reinforce the democratic movement in Iran in the long run.