The Trial of Henry Kissinger by Christopher Hitchens Summary

The Trial of Henry Kissinger by Christopher Hitchens presents a meticulous indictment of Henry Kissinger’s role in alleged war crimes during his tenure as U.S. National Security Advisor and Secretary of State. The book examines his involvement in Vietnam War escalation, CIA-backed coups in Chile and Cyprus, Indonesia’s invasion of East Timor, and other Cold War-era policies, arguing these actions violated international law and caused immense civilian suffering.

This book is essential for readers interested in Cold War history, U.S. foreign policy, or political ethics. Students of geopolitics, journalists, and activists will value Hitchens’ rigorous analysis of declassified documents and his unflinching critique of unchecked power.

Yes—Hitchens’ sharp prose and evidence-driven approach make it a compelling read for those seeking to understand Kissinger’s controversial legacy. While polemical, the book’s reliance on primary sources and its focus on accountability remain relevant in debates about war crimes and diplomatic impunity.

Hitchens accuses Kissinger of expanding the Vietnam War into Cambodia and Laos despite knowing the military futility, leading to mass civilian casualties and destabilization. He highlights Kissinger’s role in prolonging the conflict and sabotaging peace talks for political gain.

The book details Kissinger’s support for the coup against Salvador Allende, citing declassified CIA memos showing U.S. coordination with General Pinochet’s regime. Hitchens ties Kissinger to post-coup atrocities, including torture and disappearances.

Hitchens argues Kissinger tacitly approved Indonesia’s 1975 invasion of East Timor, enabling a genocide that killed 200,000 Timorese. The book cites transcripts where Kissinger assured Indonesia’s Suharto of U.S. diplomatic cover despite congressional opposition.

Hitchens adopts a prosecutorial tone, structuring chapters like legal briefs. He combines archival research, witness testimonies, and biting irony to build a case against Kissinger, avoiding speculation in favor of documented decisions.

Hitchens condemns the 1973 Nobel Peace Prize awarded to Kissinger for Vietnam negotiations as a grotesque irony, noting the war’s continuation and Kissinger’s secret bombing campaigns in Cambodia.

Critics argue Hitchens’ adversarial approach oversimplifies complex geopolitics and excludes contextual defenses of Kissinger’s actions. Others note the book’s focus on moral condemnation over systemic analysis of U.S. foreign policy.

Hitchens’ arguments resonate in modern discussions about holding leaders accountable for war crimes. The book is frequently cited in debates over U.S. interventions and the legal immunity of political figures.

The book relies on declassified cables, Nixon-era tapes, CIA records, and testimonies from whistleblowers. Hitchens emphasizes Kissinger’s own memos to illustrate his awareness of civilian harm.

Unlike his religious critiques (God Is Not Great), this book focuses on geopolitical morality, showcasing Hitchens’ versatility. Its legalistic structure mirrors his earlier investigative journalism.