The recent passing of Henry Kissinger, a prominent figure in American foreign policy, has elicited a wide range of reactions, marking a divide in public opinion. At 100 years old, Kissinger, known for his influential role during the Nixon administration and beyond, became a subject of polarizing views following his death.
A particularly stark critique came from Rolling Stone magazine, which published an obituary by Spencer Ackerman, framing Kissinger’s legacy in a controversial light. The article’s headline, unapologetically harsh, labeled Kissinger as a ‘war criminal’, attracting both applause and criticism on social media, including from left-leaning audiences. This stance was echoed in other media outlets, with notable figures like Ben Rhodes, a senior adviser to Barack Obama, penning an op-ed in The New York Times, criticizing Kissinger’s actions and decisions.
Contrasting these views were the tributes led by former President George W. Bush and others, acknowledging Kissinger’s significant contributions to international diplomacy. His death was marked by a variety of responses, ranging from criticism to celebration among different groups.
In the UK, Greg Swenson from Republicans Overseas acknowledged Kissinger’s controversial aspects but also highlighted his role as a statesman during the challenging times of the Cold War. Tudor Dixon, a former Republican candidate for governor in Michigan, criticized Rolling Stone for its harsh portrayal.
The Spectator’s Andrew Roberts and political commentator Phumlani Majozi offered critiques of the singular focus on Kissinger’s alleged war crimes, suggesting a broader context was necessary when evaluating the actions of U.S. Secretaries of State and Presidents in the post-World War II era.
The debate was further fueled by resurfacing comments from the late celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain, who had been deeply critical of Kissinger’s actions in Southeast Asia. Bourdain’s past remarks highlighted a visceral response to Kissinger’s policies, particularly in Cambodia.
Kissinger’s complex legacy is reflected in the varied responses to his death. While some, like former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Security Minister Tom Tugendhat, praised his diplomatic achievements and mourned his passing, others like former Labour MP Chris Mullin and Ben Rhodes offered a more critical perspective, highlighting the contentious nature of his policies, especially in Southeast Asia. This division underscores the enduring debate over Kissinger’s impact on global politics and human rights.