How Do They Mobilize These People?

The public diplomacy of the Iranian people rather mirrors the actual diplomacy of the Iranian government, doesn’t it? Lots of belligerent shouting intended to convince westerners that you’re not dealing with devotees of classic, stately realpolitik. The Broken Watch predicts that hostage crisis redux will end with a tiny “bargain” – something like Blair issuing a promise not to violate Iranian sovereignty – which will be met with rolling eyes in the U.K. and U.S. and thronging, triumphant consecrations of Ahmadinejad’s name in Tehran.

Blair has the support of the world, and rightly so. Still, one can’t help smiling when the British emphasize the contrast with their Victorian dignity and calm:

"The responsible way forward is to continue the often unglamorous, but important and quiet diplomatic work to get our personnel home," [Transport Minister Douglas] Alexander told the British Broadcasting Corp.'s Sunday AM program.

Matthew Yglesias trusts the Blair government, both to resolve the crisis and to rein in President Nothing-To-Lose. So do I. Let's hope no one on Pennsylvania Avenue gets too excited.