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Clintonian diplomacy

Barack Obama has been justifiably criticized for being vague on foreign policy. But at least he isn’t offending anyone. By contrast, Hillary Clinton, in her determination to grab the Democratic nomination, has hurled principles of international diplomacy out the window. Most obviously, she sent nervous ripples around the world by threatening to “totally obliterate” Iran […]

Barack Obama has been justifiably criticized for being vague on foreign policy. But at least he isn’t offending anyone. By contrast, Hillary Clinton, in her determination to grab the Democratic nomination, has hurled principles of international diplomacy out the window.

Most obviously, she sent nervous ripples around the world by threatening to “totally obliterate” Iran on the eve of her Pennsylvania victory. Yet in recent weeks, she has also—as Ben Smith lists—insulted Putin, gaffed over Pakistan, recklessly waded in against the Beijing Olympics (embarrassing Gordon Brown in the process), and even annoyed the Kiwis.

There is almost certainly too much talk of a President Obama improving America’s standing in the world. But, on current form, just imagine the chaos Hillary could wreak with a phone to her ear at 3 am.

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