I would add the need for SA to stop funding Wahhabi madrasas as they do in Pakistan and other countries. Whether intentionally or not they are a major source of radicalization for youth just seeking an education.
Yes I understand that Salafis and most Wahhabi are not terrorists but the ideology of "the other is evil" is a short distance form "the other must be destroyed". And even those who oppose the violence understand the reasoning behind it.
As a daily reader and supporter of your work I am constantly impressed with your views and knowledge that provides context for these issues. While I agree with much of what you say and the comments concerning our own culpability for many of these problems, I can't get past the problem of Wahhabism. Here is an ideology that even in its less radical forms promotes hate for others and is promoted worldwide through Saudi sponsors. It seems (I admit I have no research) that the spread of AQ, Taliban, ISIS, Boco Haram, etc. is closely associated with Saudi promotion of Wahhabi ideology through its Madrasas. While the less radical elements of this ideology have denounced terrorism it seems the interpretations and belief at the core lead to our current situation when combined with issues such as lack of opportunity, oppression, etc. I have similar concerns with Christian Nationalist ideologies. I keep wondering if it is possible to deal with these issues without directly confronting Saudi Arabia and Wahhabism?
The real problem comes if and when the Iraqi army and/or the militias enter one of the Sunni areas and begin to exact their revenge. Then what does the US do?
It has had its intended effect. The story is out there. Many may not remember exactly where they saw it but recall that computer files indicated nuclear testing. Another reason in the back of the minds of the electorate to fear and hate Iran. And no one will ever suffer any consequences for creating this. Sunday talk show guests will reference the stories and no one will contradict them except some left wing blogs that most pay no attention to.
Are there international agreements against the use of embassies for military purposes as in Libya? While not trying to excuse Iran, given our long term involvement in determining their government for them I suspect their reaction to the embassy was understandable if not acceptable.
Based on reading your posts it seems the biggest question is who if anyone within this group is capable of standing up to the military? I would doubt that the military will be willing to voluntarily give up their lucrative businesses and control of the economy.
You mention younger Americans not remembering when the US was not at war. I am 60. I was born during the Korean War, came of age during Viet Nam and I find it hard to remember a time when wee were not at war.
Since the tax cuts are due to expire are there a few Dems brave enough to simply block any bill to extend the cuts? If the Repubs could block most meaningful legislation why can't the Dems? I would gladly give up my small middle class tax break if it meant a return to reasonable taxes on the wealthy.
Kennedy did not ask congress to figure out how to get to the moon. He put his administration to the task. While I had high hopes for this administration it seems that the consensus organizing approach gets us nowhere.
I would add the need for SA to stop funding Wahhabi madrasas as they do in Pakistan and other countries. Whether intentionally or not they are a major source of radicalization for youth just seeking an education.
Yes I understand that Salafis and most Wahhabi are not terrorists but the ideology of "the other is evil" is a short distance form "the other must be destroyed". And even those who oppose the violence understand the reasoning behind it.
As a daily reader and supporter of your work I am constantly impressed with your views and knowledge that provides context for these issues. While I agree with much of what you say and the comments concerning our own culpability for many of these problems, I can't get past the problem of Wahhabism. Here is an ideology that even in its less radical forms promotes hate for others and is promoted worldwide through Saudi sponsors. It seems (I admit I have no research) that the spread of AQ, Taliban, ISIS, Boco Haram, etc. is closely associated with Saudi promotion of Wahhabi ideology through its Madrasas. While the less radical elements of this ideology have denounced terrorism it seems the interpretations and belief at the core lead to our current situation when combined with issues such as lack of opportunity, oppression, etc. I have similar concerns with Christian Nationalist ideologies. I keep wondering if it is possible to deal with these issues without directly confronting Saudi Arabia and Wahhabism?
No we should each take responsibility for the damage we are creating
Another example of the tragedy of the commons
The real problem comes if and when the Iraqi army and/or the militias enter one of the Sunni areas and begin to exact their revenge. Then what does the US do?
It has had its intended effect. The story is out there. Many may not remember exactly where they saw it but recall that computer files indicated nuclear testing. Another reason in the back of the minds of the electorate to fear and hate Iran. And no one will ever suffer any consequences for creating this. Sunday talk show guests will reference the stories and no one will contradict them except some left wing blogs that most pay no attention to.
Are there international agreements against the use of embassies for military purposes as in Libya? While not trying to excuse Iran, given our long term involvement in determining their government for them I suspect their reaction to the embassy was understandable if not acceptable.
Juan,
Based on reading your posts it seems the biggest question is who if anyone within this group is capable of standing up to the military? I would doubt that the military will be willing to voluntarily give up their lucrative businesses and control of the economy.
You mention younger Americans not remembering when the US was not at war. I am 60. I was born during the Korean War, came of age during Viet Nam and I find it hard to remember a time when wee were not at war.
Since the tax cuts are due to expire are there a few Dems brave enough to simply block any bill to extend the cuts? If the Repubs could block most meaningful legislation why can't the Dems? I would gladly give up my small middle class tax break if it meant a return to reasonable taxes on the wealthy.
Kennedy did not ask congress to figure out how to get to the moon. He put his administration to the task. While I had high hopes for this administration it seems that the consensus organizing approach gets us nowhere.