Iran outplays the US – and Europe is saying so out loud

M Santhananaban

Two months have passed since the start of a pathetic, pointless and provocative war waged by the United States and Israel against Iran.

The prognosis for the war is now on the front pages of the world’s leading newspapers.

The Financial Times quotes German Chancellor Friedrich Merz as stating that the US is being “humiliated” by Iran in the peace talks mediated by Pakistan. What Merz really meant was that the US was being hoodwinked and hollowed out by Iranian negotiators.

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin has praised the Iranian people for resisting US aggression.

And yet US President Donald Trump puts on a benign and brave face as he hosts King Charles of the UK. It is, in its own way, a study in contrasts – for Trump cannot control the narratives of the war coming out of London, New York, Paris, Singapore, Sydney or Hong Kong.

The mauling and mocking of the US has begun. Trump looks weak, laughable and out of his depth. As the 60-day deadline under the War Powers Act approaches, his authority to conduct the war faces a constitutional test, with the US Congress asserting its right to weigh in. An unrepentant Trump is in serious trouble.

It was King Charles himself who, in addressing a joint session of Congress in Washington DC, offered a sharp counterpoint. He spoke of the “living mosaic of the US” and of “the vibrant, diverse and free societies that give us our collective strength”.

This theme of inclusive, diverse societies is a key reality of an increasingly globalised world. It is a source of strength to be celebrated.

Malaysia’s own leaders should continue to embrace, emphasise and empower this theme. It is a powerful message that can unify, inspire and uplift the people’s sense of belonging to this country.

Let us hope Trump gets the message too.

Dato’ M Santhananaban is a former ambassador with 45 years of public sector experience.