On War

Sun Tzi, the Chinese warrior and philosopher of the 5th century BC once wrote;

“The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting.”

Now, 3000 years later. we can learn a lot from that ancient wisdom – – but regrettably we seem to learn little from history, neither ancient history nor our own recent history in Middle East adventures.

In his widely read book, ‘the Art of War,’ there are many lessons and important admonitions:

• Victorious warriors win first, then go to war, while defeated warriors go to war first and then seek to win.
• If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.
• Appear weak when you are strong, and strong when you are weak.

• All warfare is based on deception.
• Let your plans be dark and impenetrable as night
• Build your opponent a golden bridge to retreat across.

It is vital, and it should be obvious, that before marching off to war, clear and achievable objectives be established that reflect our fundamental national interest, have extensive knowledge of the opponent’s capability and vulnerability, and have a clear and achievable path to the end hostilities. 

The American strategist and advocate of the cold war, George Kennan, famously said (paraphrased), “America is less interested in the internal policies of a country than its exterior posture.” In other words we must pursue our own, even if selfish, self-interest and not be driven off course by other less crucial factors or any other nation’s particular interests. We must have learned by now:

•  We cannot and should not be drawn into a conflict of another party’s making.
• We cannot and should never, attempt to forcibly alter the internal structure, culture or leadership of any country. Those things can best be changed only by their own people. Hopefully, America’s own success in developing a dominant democratic nation and an inclusive culture will serve as an example and a model to emulate, at least in some respect.
• We must not render a country helpless and in total chaos.
• We must have a limited and clear understanding what a win looks like, and back off when it is accomplished.

Yes, we do not want Iran to possess nuclear weaponry and we do not want Iran to pose a threat to our allies, neither directly nor through their regional proxies. But could there not be a way forward on these short of a bloody and costly military conflict that has profound implications worldwide?  Have we exhausted every avenue short of war?

We do not seem to fully understand the enemy we are fighting. Muslims do not fear death in defense of their faith, their family or their country. In fact, many actively seek martyrdom, as a glorious pathway to eternity. They accept death before dishonor. 

In spite of our and Israel’s extensive military intelligence, we seem to have had little understanding of Iran’s massive, lethal and precision arsenal of weapons, nor of their willingness to fight to the death. 

How are we doing so far in Iran? 

Will we learn anything from this war? History says probably not.

– – – – .Just the view of a common man