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Debate Rages Over Henry Kissinger's Legacy Following His Death at 100

Critics Condemn His Role in Conflicts, While Others Praise His Strategic Acumen and 'Pragmatic Idealism'

  • Henry Kissinger, former US national security adviser and secretary of state, passed away on November 29, aged 100. His legacy is being hotly debated, with some praising his strategic acumen and others condemning his role in various conflicts.
  • Kissinger is credited with shaping US efforts to contain the Soviet Union and communist influence globally, introducing the 'bombs over diplomacy' approach, which led to some of the most brutal bombing campaigns in modern history.
  • His role in the Vietnam War, where he pushed for carpet bombing not only Vietnam but also neighbouring Cambodia, has been widely criticized. The bombing campaigns resulted in the deaths of between three and four million people during his eight years in office.
  • Kissinger's actions in South Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East have also been scrutinized. He supported Islamabad during the genocide against the Bengali population of East Pakistan and gave the green light for the Indonesian invasion of East Timor.
  • Despite his controversial legacy, some argue that current leaders could learn from Kissinger's 'pragmatic idealism', his ability to engage with diverse stakeholders, and his willingness to challenge and redirect the opinions of leaders.
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