Strategy is, at some level, the ability to predict what's going to happen, but it's also about understanding the context in which it is being formulated. And then you have to be open-minded to the fact that you're not going to get it right at the very beginning.

My belief is that when the military is used as the sole instrument of power, that never has a good outcome. If there's no one to take ownership and develop that failed state, human suffering can be even worse than that created by the conflict itself.

Relieving the risk of a nuclear conflict with Iran diplomatically is superior than trying to do that militarily.

I worked hard at whatever task I was given and embraced leadership opportunities, whether as a crossing guard, an altar boy, or a general.

The world is yearning for strong leadership and moral clarity; someone who knows the difference between good and bad.

I believe life is a series of near misses. A lot of what we ascribe to luck is not luck at all. It's seizing the day and accepting responsibility for your future. It's seeing what other people don't see And pursuing that vision.

It doesn't take a majority to make a rebellion; it takes only a few determined leaders and a sound cause.

The legitimacy of the leadership depends on what that country thinks of its leaders.