There’s a pattern in American analysis
of and diplomacy toward Iran in which analysts project their own wishes
and desires upon so-called reformers. Take former President Mohammad
Khatami, for example. In 1997, Iranians chose him over Ali Akbar
Nateq-Nouri, the parliamentary speaker and establishment favorite.
Khatami’s rhetoric won the imagination when he spoke of a “dialogue of
civilizations.”
Was he a reformer?
Analysts projected upon him a benevolence borne of his gentle demeanor
and softer rhetoric. His rhetoric, however, did not necessarily coincide
with his actions.
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