An international incident can occur between countries or citizens, often caused by instigation or unintentional missteps. Different definitions exist, with some considering minor matters as incidents, while others only apply to serious crimes. Offenses committed by celebrities or government members may be taken more seriously, and diplomatic measures without appropriate authority can create problems. People in positions of power must respect foreign governments and their own to avoid incidents.
When a bad event occurs between one country and another, or between citizens of one country and another, it could be described by the media or by some people as an international incident. This is especially true if the state of affairs causes an escalation in disputes or possibly creates a larger conflict out of an already tense situation. An international incident can also be responsible for starting a war.
Many times, an international incident is the result of instigation by a particular country’s government, faction or military organization, but it can also be the result of unintentional missteps or could be caused by ordinary citizens. More often than not, however, an international incident occurs when there is no major conflict and is caused by sudden or surprising actions, such as terrorism. The 1979 Iranian hostage crisis, in which 52 Americans were held hostage for 444 days, is regarded by many as an international incident. How a country handles a situation where a foreigner has committed a criminal offense could also cause an incident between that country and the person’s home country if there is a dispute over things like trial or punishment if the person she is found guilty.
Different nations, the world community as a whole, and some international agencies or institutions have different definitions for what constitutes an international incident. Some believe that minor matters that can be effectively handled through diplomacy should be considered international incidents, but others believe it only applies to more serious crimes. Diplomatic efforts may not always work, even in cases deemed minor by some people, and armed conflict may result. Additionally, some nations will view an offense as an act of war rather than simply an international incident.
The distinction could come down to who committed the wrongful act, such as when celebrities or individual members of a government cross the line and say things they shouldn’t. In other cases, if members of the military or government actually speak on behalf of a nation, the offense is likely to be taken much more seriously. To avoid such incidents, people with influence should be careful how they act and talk, especially when visiting another country.
If a representative of a nation offers diplomatic measures without the appropriate authority, and these measures go directly against his nation’s policy, this can lead to problems. These mixed messages can create offense, especially if the other country tries to redeem the unapproved measures and the request is rejected by those in authority. This is why there are laws, like the Logan Act in the US, that are meant to protect against such things. People who are in positions of power therefore have to respect not only foreign governments but also their own to avoid an international incident, or worse.
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