by Mona Lisa Safai

Created on: September 26, 2008

As the case shows in history, it is too soon to tell whether or not Ahmadinejad will be perceived as a political animal or a genius. An ironic fact is how polarizing his actions are as they parallel with President George W. Bush. However, it is more likely that Ahmadinejad has a far greater chance of being remembered as a political animal and political genius than President Bush.

On the one hand, President Ahmadinejad has made blanket economic promises to improve Iranians' daily life. Unfortunately, not only has this not come to fruition, but a decline both in economy and oil production and increase in inflation has occurred. The younger population (30 years and younger) has experienced great loss of job opportunities and a "brain drain" despite the concentrated focus on education in society. So, Ahmadinejad has not followed through with his promises to enrich Iranians' lives.

What he has accomplished is to speak to people's hearts and souls. He inspired them and aligned himself with the conservative Islam doctrine and teachings. The deeply embedded religion became even more so into society again. Political factions in society trying to break free from the existing oligarchy in the political structure had to go underground. Ahmadinejad's political savvy was a threat to many who aimed for a more democratic political structure.

His political mastermind countered the United States during a time of nuclear uncertainty. His words may have left many Americans and others questioning his intentions. However, his actions have always been straightforward and on target. He has never gone against the Oslo Treaty. Regardless of one's feelings about him politically or personally, he stands alone bravely defending Iran. He knows his nation's history as one that has never been an aggressor; rather, the peaceful country attacked.

His genius manifests in the foreign policy ties he developed with Russia again. At one time, Russia was an enemy, now it is a close ally. In politics, knowing they are the two sides of the same coin is the key to survival.

On another front is Ahmadinejad's involvement with Iraq. Some may have thought that Iran wanted the United States in Iraq. However, American presence was never welcomed in the Middle East. In particular, American presence is not wanted by Iran. Ahmadinejad has made it clear that the need for American withdrawal should happen because Iraqis should decide their own fate, not Americans. He knows that the Bush Doctrine plan was to not only occupy Iraq but the entire Middle East region.

Of course, Israel is a key player in the Middle East. His comments about Israel have stirred many across the globe. Although, he has explained his reasoning, his words are either not received or only snippets are taken out of context. Again, Ahmadinejad plays a good chess game. But, he knows that if Israel attacks Iran, he will have a reason to strike. He will also have the support of his allies.

So far, President Ahmadinejad has proven himself to be quite a statesman with political endurance and confidence. His motivations move him to protect his people, defend his nation, and participate in diplomatic negotiations. This last element is constantly overlooked by the media.

If and only when the United States comes forward with respect will the Iranian President be able to respond accordingly. It must be remembered that the United States unilaterally broke ties with Iran, not the other way around.

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