the U.S. can “deliver” the other side

[cannonkuo]

As Haig’s shuttle diplomacy appears to be a futile mission during the Falklands Crisis, some officials from the State Department analyze what to do if President Reagan suspends Haig's mission...
—Suspension may well decrease chances of conflict by removing illusions (particularly Argentina’s) that the U.S. can “deliver” the other side;
(Source: Foreign Relations of the United States, 1981–1988, Volume XIII, Conflict in the South Atlantic, 1981–1984 - Office of the Historian)

What does the U.S. can “deliver” the other side mean?

 

[Tarheel]

My best guess is that the Argentinians thought the US could talk Britain out of going to war over the Falklands. (I remember that vaguely.)

 

[cannonkuo]

My best guess is that the Argentinians thought the US could talk Britain out of going to war over the Falklands. (I remember that vaguely.)

So "deliver" here means "persuade"?

 

[SoothingDave]

So "deliver" here means "persuade"?

No, it means to do what was promised. If I "deliver" it means what I say I will do, I do.

 

[Tarheel]

The relevant phrase is "deliver the other side". So it's not about doing what you said you were going to do. (The relevant phrase there would be "deliver on your promise".)