Henry Kissinger's Demise: Unsuccessful Bid to Deter India During the 1971 War

Henry Kissinger, the former US Secretary of State known for realpolitik, passed away at 100. His legacy in global diplomacy involved key roles in US-China relations and the Indo-Pakistan conflict. Initially strained, his views later shifted, advocating stronger Indo-US ties, recognizing India's growing global influence and leadership under Narendra Modi.

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Former US Secretary of State, Henry Kissinger, passed away at the age of 100, leaving behind a complex legacy in global diplomacy. Renowned as a proponent of realpolitik, Kissinger played a pivotal role in shaping significant chapters of American foreign policy, notably during the Vietnam War and in fostering relations with China. His pragmatic approach prioritized practical considerations over ideological or moral aspects.

Kissinger's influence extended to the sphere of Indo-US relations, marking a contentious history. Despite his initial preference for fostering friendly ties with India, his tenure was marred by strained relations. Notably, the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) led by India's former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru created rifts between the US administrations of Harry Truman, Dwight D. Eisenhower, and Richard Nixon.

The backdrop of the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War shed light on the tense relationship between the US and India. Kissinger's disdain for India, coupled with Nixon's contentious rapport with then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, was evident in declassified conversations. Their derogatory language towards India's leadership underscored the tumultuous phase in bilateral relations.

Amid geopolitical alliances, where Pakistan aligned with the US while India grew closer to the Soviet Union, Kissinger and Nixon sought to counterbalance India's ascent by leaning towards China, a strategic ally of Pakistan. Their efforts during the 1971 conflict to 'scare off' India through Chinese intervention highlighted their strategy.

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However, China's reluctance to intervene stemmed from apprehensions about provoking the Soviet Union, a key ally of India at that time. Similarly, the Soviet Union's deployment of naval fleets signaled a warning against US interference in the war. Despite attempts, the US did not directly engage, considering the risk of confrontation with the Soviets.

The conflict culminated in a decisive victory for India, leading to the birth of Bangladesh. Kissinger's later remarks reflected a change in perspective, acknowledging Indira Gandhi's character and India's strategic acumen. Post-Cold War, he advocated for stronger Indo-US ties, recognizing India's growing global significance under leaders like Narendra Modi.

Kissinger's evolving views underscored the intricacies of global politics and the shifting dynamics between nations, marking a journey from strained relations to advocacy for stronger partnerships in a changing world order.