Rick Stengel: We’re Risking ‘Clash of Civilizations with the West Against the Muslim World’

EXCERPT:

STENGEL: "I think this is a gigantic blow against America’s soft power. I mean, the last time we took a hit like this was probably the Iraq war in 2003, when our positive rating all around the world was like in the teens. I think, you know, we’re risking this kind of clash of civilizations with the West against the Muslim world. I think America’s brand now, even though Trump says it’s the hottest in history — by the way, whatever that means, the hottest history — like in 1980s phrase, I mean, it’s exactly the opposite of that."