President Obama and Diplomacy: Are We Too Daft to Learn the Lessons of Today?

By now, we have all heard that North Korea has tested a nuclear weapon late last night. This situation is grave, and threat of tyrannical regimes looking to hold the global community hostage is quickly becoming a new reality.

And, how has the Leader of the Free World responded?

Below are excerpts from President Obama's speech.

Today, North Korea said that it has conducted a nuclear test in violation of international law. It appears to also have attempted a short range missile launch. These actions, while not a surprise given its statements and actions to date, are a matter of grave concern to all nations. North Korea's attempts to develop nuclear weapons, as well as its ballistic missile program, constitute a threat to international peace and security.

By acting in blatant defiance of the United Nations Security Council, North Korea is directly and recklessly challenging the international community. North Korea⿿s behavior increases tensions and undermines stability in Northeast Asia. Such provocations will only serve to deepen North Korea's isolation. It will not find international acceptance unless it abandons its pursuit of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery.

The danger posed by North Korea's threatening activities warrants action by the international community. We have been and will continue working with our allies and partners in the Six-Party Talks as well as other members of the U.N. Security Council in the days ahead.

What disturbs me is when the President acknowledges that "these actions, while not a surprise given its statements and actions to date..."

North Korea has explicitly stated that it is relentlessly pursuing nuclear capabilities. They have tested the patience of the international community and snubbed the UN time and time again.The president wasn't shocked by the bomb test; after all, North Korea has given every indication that they will keep pursuing nukes.

Well, Mr. President, what about Iran?

Like North Korea, Iran has consistently blown off the demands of the international community. Like North Korea, Iran has demonstrated a strong desire to obtain nuclear power. However, unlike North Korea, Iran has been extremely explicit with its intentions: wipe out Israel, dominate the region, and bring the redemption with a full blown war against the culture of the West.

Violence. Destruction. Terror.

If the President isn't shocked by the actions of North Korea, will he be shocked if, god forbid, Iran lobs a nuke into Tel Aviv? I mean, they have indicated that they would, right?

What North Korea has shown us is simple: these tyrannical leaders who are seeking nuclear weapons are not merely spewing rhetoric.They aren't playing politics. They are serious. Their threat is real. And the President must lead. If we want America and her allies to remain safe, if we are to preserve civility in the world, we must take these people seriously. The time for diplomacy is over. The time for action has arrived. We cannot be weak, for, the weak shall perish and only the strong will survive.