The Fog of Peace stands out for its unique combination of psychological theory, practical diplomacy, and firsthand accounts from some of the world’s most intractable conflicts. Rifkind, drawing on her work in the Middle East, and Picco, with decades of experience as a UN negotiator, show that successful conflict resolution hinges on seeing adversaries as individuals—understanding their fears, resentments, and the traumas that drive their decisions. The book challenges the conventional wisdom of “talking to the enemy,” urging policymakers to move beyond retaliation and cycles of violence by fostering dialogue and trust, even with the most difficult opponents.

The authors support their arguments with case studies, such as the Iran-US negotiations and the Israeli-Palestinian peace process, demonstrating how empathy and personal relationships can open doors that formal diplomacy cannot. They also address the changing nature of warfare and the double-edged impact of technology and social media, which can fuel conflict but also empower individuals to push for peace. Throughout, Rifkind and Picco emphasize the importance of early intervention, mediation, and reform, arguing that these tools can prevent violence from becoming entrenched and seemingly endless