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Special Report
Egypt and the Realpolitik of Violence and Freedom
Mr. Obama’s sloppy thinking on the subject is alarming.
President Barack Obama’s Friday evening statement on the situation in Egypt reminds us of George Orwell’s comment that sloppy writing leads to dangerous political thinking.
“Good evening,” said the president (ritually, if, under the circumstances, inaccurately). “As the situation continues to unfold, our first concern is preventing injury or loss of life.” Our first concern?
Egypt has been our most important ally in the Arab-speaking world. The United States gives $1.3 billion in military aid to Egypt annually, and has given $28 billion in economic aid since 1975. We’ve done that for a reason. The Middle East is a metaphorical salad of dominoes waiting to fall and a powder keg waiting to blow. Islamist extremists plot, and live to plot, the end of the Great Satan and its consequence, chaos. Egypt has been a realpolitik force in opposition to that plotting.
But according to the president, our first concern is preventing injury (sprained ankles?) and loss of life. Maybe that’s just a sop to the vegans and animal rights folks (the 2012 election looms). But a president facing the prospects of Armageddon starting, and in the nature of Armageddon, ending, on his watch might nudge other concerns into first place.
The president called on the Egyptian authorities “to refrain from any violence against peaceful protesters.” The mind reels. What could the president have meant? Had he not seen the coverage of the riots in Cairo? How do you have a peaceful riot? How do you have a peaceful riot in the Middle East? These folks are not the Women’s Christian Temperance Union — and come to think of it, there was nothing peaceful about the WCTU or its most famous member, hatchet-wielding Carrie Nation.
“At the same time,” continued the president, “those protesting in the streets have the responsibility to express themselves peacefully. Violence and destruction will not lead to the reforms that they seek.” A few minutes later, the president said, “Violence will not address the grievances of the Egyptian people.” The White House press secretary, Robert Gibbs, had sounded the theme earlier in the day: “There’s no situation that — this is certainly not a situation that will be solved by violence.”
Where to begin? Either the protesters will succeed, however success is defined, and therefore will have succeeded by resorting to violence. Or the Mubarak regime will survive, however that is defined, because its violence was more violent than the violence of the protesters.
Whether the situation is “solved” depends on where you’re throwing your bombs from. Whoever wins this struggle will have succeeded through the use of more or better targeted violence.
“Now ultimately,” said the president, “the future of Egypt will be determined by the Egyptian people.” What did he mean by that? “Should be determined by the Egyptian people?” Maybe. But “will be”? It hasn’t been for decades — if ever. Ultimately, as Keynes remarked, we’re all dead. And for a lot of Egyptians this week, “ultimately” may come rather sooner than they had expected.
What should the president have said? There were two options. One is: nothing. Never underestimate the advisability of saying nothing. The United States has few good options in this situation. Keeping quiet may preserve whatever our best option is.
The second option would have been to teach — but the president is not good at teaching, as he demonstrated in his State of the Union speech. And teach whom? He could have outlined, for the American people, the dilemma: realpolitik vs. idealism. Kissinger vs. Bush. Perhaps Kissinger vs. Bush for Dummies. But how likely is it that that lecture would help the United States win the hearts and minds of whoever wins the tanks and guns in Egypt?
Besides, the president may not have thought through that dilemma (after all, his State Department took the wrong side in Honduras!), so he’s coasting on liberal shibboleths. Violence is bad. Violence is counterproductive. Floss after every meal. But that is dangerous thinking, which, pace George Orwell, can proceed to, as well as from, sloppy writing.
To think that violence is always bad is not to know, as American soldiers know, along with the millions of people in far off lands that their bravery has liberated down through the years, that violence can be the handmaiden of freedom.
Freedom for the Egyptians, however, is still years away, as it is for millions of their pitiful fellow Arabs, whatever is midwifed by the current violence. And however great the interest of the Egyptian people is in their own freedom and human rights, it is eclipsed, even if they don’t realize it, by the national security interest of the United States.
Letter to the Editor View all comments (176) | Leave a comment
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Robbins Mitchell| 1.31.11 @ 6:13AM
Well,personally I don't find Barokeydoke's sloppy thinking 'remarkable' in the least...most of his ideas about the domestic economy and foreign affairs are based on his own mistaken preconceived notions he picked up from Frank Marshall Davis,Jeremiah Wright,Saul Alinsky et al...and he is pretty much incapable of thinking outside of the constraints of that narrow ideological box...look for yet more of the same if the Arab world unravels further
Alan Brooks| 1.31.11 @ 10:39AM
Just be glad McCain isn't president. He would have said something really asinine:
"Egypt has great pyramids, I like it alot. Tutankamen is nice, he wears alot of bandagers because, I guess, he was in a chariot accident."
Steve A| 1.31.11 @ 10:50AM
Right On Alan, Yeah, Obama is just so superior to McCain in foreign policy & defence / potential conflict issues.....He specializes in locating ass to kiss & just has not yet identified the backside of preference in Egypt yet.
This all confirmed when Obama schooled McCain on the Iraq surge issue ....Oooops
Anthony| 1.31.11 @ 2:47PM
You're so right Alan, Obozo and the Ds are just so much smarter than the rest of America.
"We'll be out of Afghanstan by the end of the year", err I mean Iraq. (Obozo this past weekend)
"If the Rs try to shut down the government as they did in 1995, we will not be able to fund social security checks and the military..... the credit markets will become afraid..... we have to deal with this, WE HAVE THREE BRANCHES OF GOVERNMENT, THE HOUSE, THE SENATE AND THE PRESIDENT'.( Sen Chucky Smucky Schumer to CNN on Sunday).
Yep, what brainiacs we have with Obozo and Schumer, gee, aren't they both Harvard men?
All we needed was O'biteme to reaffirm that the president is focused like a lazer on a three letter word, J O B S.
O'biteme ain't a Harvard man, but he might just as well be.
Your heros, Alan, are all fools.
Anthony| 1.31.11 @ 2:57PM
P.S. Speaking of hot mummies, it was your boy slick Willlie in the '90s, while over in Egypt, who looked at a 3,000 year old female mummy and said she was a pretty good looking mummy, or words to that effect.
I guess Monica did not accompany the slickster on that trip, that, or he really gets off on women who are bound and gaged.
Tom in Michigan| 1.31.11 @ 5:41PM
What the idol of millions of leftists said, referring to"Juanita," a then newly discovered Incan mummy on display at the National Geographic museum was, ""You know, if I were a single man, I might ask that mummy out. That's a good-looking mummy," as if being single ever stopped him from getting his Willy slicked before. Add necrophilia to his other "admirable" qualities.
KO| 1.31.11 @ 3:44PM
Brooks, stay on topic. your guy obama is president. remember? you voted for him. Why do you purposely change the topic? Sorry you voted for him, admit it, and move on, you will feel better.
W| 1.31.11 @ 3:46PM
Ignore Brooks, or whatever his name is, he is here only to deflect comments from Obama and the Dems.
KyMouse| 1.31.11 @ 12:35PM
The unraveling that is going in Egypt has one bright side so far -- an illustration of the need for citizens to arm themselves against mobs of thugs and looters. TV news has shown Egyptian citizens grimly planning to defend their families and their homes with golf clubs and canes.
Thousands of prisons are now roaming free; looters are attacking malls and even the priceless collection at the Cairo Museum. The police can't be everywhere, even if they want to be.
Perhaps what's happening over there will help stem the post-Tuscon calls for more gun control here.
KyMouse| 1.31.11 @ 12:37PM
Tucson -- sorry.
Impeach Don't Wait| 1.31.11 @ 1:50PM
Somebody needs to watch Obama. He'll probably install some new czar or regulations while everybody's distracted with Egypt.
Brian Mc| 1.31.11 @ 6:25AM
"Hey, Achmed...did you see the U.S. leader's response to our riots?"
"No, Whirling Dirvish, I missed it, what did he say?"
"He says, we are to protest peacefully."
"Hey, I never thought of that. We'd better adhere to his superior way of thinking, don't you think?"
"You know, you're right...whew, that was a close one."
Sandyhook| 1.31.11 @ 10:12AM
You should review the work of Mohandas Gandhi. He was the pre-eminent political and ideological leader of India during the Indian independence movement. He pioneered resistance to tyranny through mass civil disobedience. This concept helped India to gain independence, and inspired movements for civil rights and freedom across the world. His work inspired Martin Luther King Jr., who followed in Ghandi's steps and lead this country to civil rights for all. Civil wars never end well for any of the parties, so it is possible that Ghandi's was a superior way of gaining freedom.
Brian Mc| 1.31.11 @ 10:21AM
Paying lip service to the alien who bows to thugs and murderers does not incite peaceful resolutions. Ghandi's approach only worked because he was battling a country that had a higher sense of morals than say, countries that gave us goulags and/or concentration camps.
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 10:26AM
Unfortunately, Ghandi is not leading the revolution in Egypt, nor are his philosophies driving it.
Jeff Perren | 1.31.11 @ 11:38AM
"it is possible that Ghandi's was a superior way of gaining freedom."
Superior, perhaps, but is it true that it was a major driver in Indian independence? Probably not.
"Chief Justice P.B. Chakrabarty of Calcutta High Court, who had also served as the acting Governor of West Bengal in India, disclosed the following in a letter addressed to the publisher of Dr. R.C. Majumdar’s book ‘A History of Bengal’.
The CJ wrote: “My direct question to him was that since Gandhi’s “Quit India” movement had tapered off quite some time ago and in 1947 no such new compelling situation had arisen that would necessitate a hasty British departure, why did they have to leave?
In his reply Atlee cited several reasons, the principal among them being the erosion of loyalty to the British Crown among the Indian army and navy personnel as a result of the military activities of Netaji.
Toward the end of our discussion I asked Atlee what was the extent of Gandhi’s influence upon the British decision to quit India.
Hearing this question, Atlee’s lips became twisted in a sarcastic smile as he slowly chewed out the word, 'm-i-n-i-m-a-l!'
(Subhas Chandra Bose, the Indian National Army, and the War of India’s Liberation-Ranjan Borra, Journal of Historical Review, no. 3, 4 (Winter 1982).
Lisa| 1.31.11 @ 12:41PM
Gandhi got off on beating the sh!t out of wife! Likewise, MLK with his galpals! MLK also like to hobnob with Commies! How ironic that the followers of rabid Marxist Nelson Mandela destroyed the house Gandhi lived at while going to law school in their bid to get their "non-violent" lord and god sprung from the poke!
NEd| 1.31.11 @ 12:54PM
Gandhi's "peaceful" actions only worked because the British Empire was broke, and prostrated due to two world wars... and look what it got him... three bullets in the chest... (63 years ago, yesterday)... leading directly to the partition of India and Pakistan, and the loss of a million lives...
Tom in Michigan| 1.31.11 @ 5:55PM
Sorry, Ned but, I must disagree. Gandhi's methods worked because he sought to depose a relatively benevolent British adversary. Martin Luther King, Jr. was also successful in his peaceful quest for civil rights within a liberal democracy wherein the vast majority realized the grievous nature of denying fully 12% of its citizens their God-given rights.
However, neither of them would have survived for one second if they were opposing the Islamist barbarians of today. Sadly, though both Muslims and Hindus opposed the partition of British India; their irreconcilable differences led to that end.
Tom in Michigan| 1.31.11 @ 5:47PM
The Mahatma was truly a great man, one of my few personal idols and worthy of the admiration he received from friend and adversary alike, the latter whose liberty he also sought. Sadly, he was murdered by other Hindus.
I do so hope the Muslim Brotherhood adopts his peaceful philosophy and methods when the take over in Egypt. What do you think are the odds?
Nunya| 1.31.11 @ 6:11PM
Zero.
Will| 1.31.11 @ 6:33AM
Somebody help me out, what's that prophecy thats been banging around for quite some time now...uh, something about a mysterious stranger appearing on the scene, his arrival triggering cataclysmic events...but seriously folks, what a time for this to happen, with such a leadership void. Perhaps it couldn't have otherwise?
Carol | 1.31.11 @ 6:40AM
Chaos since January 21, 2009.
That was the plan the entire time. Domestically.
Internationally Obama probably thought talking to the Egyptians would have made their minds rest easy. But when you are hungry words mean nothing.
Melvin| 1.31.11 @ 6:34AM
I don't know about the rest of you, but the Muslim Brothood's rise to power is extremely, extremely bad ju ju.
Barry may or may have not been able to head this one off. For all I know he may have facilitated it, not actively mind you, but in his own way.
Majority of the Western Nations are cheering on the Egyptians, what fools. Do we think for one moment that the Muslim Brotherhood is going to install a representative form of Democracy in Egypt or anywhere else for that matter.
Then their naiveté is bigger that Justin Bieber's hopes of getting between Kim Kardashian's globes this weekend.
The Western Nations also fail to realize who is pulling the strings of the Muslim Brotherhood. Iran, Iran, Iran, has it's fingerprints all over the Nations that are exploding right now.
Al Quds have been seen in Cairo directing rioters.
So I guess it can be written in stone. Jimmy Carter gave us the rise of Islamic Fundamentalism in Iran, and Barry Obama gave us the rise of Islamic Fundamentalism in the entire Middle East Region.
Carol | 1.31.11 @ 6:35AM
George W. Bush where are you?
We have a clown for president that never was and never will be ready for that 3:00 a.m. phone call. Hillary must be patting herself on the back.
R Martin| 1.31.11 @ 8:10AM
It's not apparent Mrs. Clinton has shown the slightest facility with 3:00 a.m. phone calls. One should take no comfort in her imput in this matter.
Steve A| 1.31.11 @ 9:13AM
When Hillary gets a 3 AM phone call it's usually a drunk chick asking for Billy.
Appleby| 1.31.11 @ 11:22AM
Yep, the one thing that's going to calm the waters in an Arab country is a powerful woman giving them orders.
Steve A| 1.31.11 @ 11:39AM
Especially one wearing a pant suit & talking to you like you are Bill when he just came home from a 3 day bender.
Claypoole| 1.31.11 @ 1:32PM
Hillary Clinton has spent the better part of her adult life trading humiliation for power: Bill's serial adultery, Obama's giving her the finger during the '08 campaign. Her current job is just more of the same trade-off. She is as incompetent as her boss.
Appleby| 1.31.11 @ 6:46AM
I bet King Zero is thinking right now (as he recovers from partying with Axelrod last night -- read GretaWire for details) that this whole thing looked a lot easier when he was second-guessing President Bush from the sidelines.
Apparently Zero is starting to understand that being King means you are out in front where the bullets are flying. The solution is never going to be standing there yelling NO NO!
The solution is going to involve drawing your sword, pointing it high, and yelling *GOD FOR ENGLAND, HARRY AND ST. GEORGE!*
(If you are under 40, google this).
Perhaps it is time for Obama to sit down in the White House Theatre and watch *The Return of the King*.
For the rest of us: lamps filled, wicks trimmed, and meet us in the anteroom, for the Masters footsteps approach.
Booger | 1.31.11 @ 9:56AM
Make sure you bring plenty of spare oil for your lamp.
KyMouse| 1.31.11 @ 12:02PM
Appleby, I quote your "keep your lamps filled and your wicks trimmed, people" comment (from a couple of years ago) quite often. Thanks!
RAMIII| 1.31.11 @ 3:55PM
"To think that violence is always bad is not to know, as American soldiers know, along with the millions of people in far off lands that their bravery has liberated down through the years, that violence can be the handmaiden of freedom."
The movie "300" illustrates this fabulously!!
Deborah D | 1.31.11 @ 6:47AM
I see no good options in all of this. I hope I'm wrong, but with the Muslim Brotherhood in the streets with those who might actually want their freedom, who do you think will win out? Remember Iran? Remember Lebanon? Remember Palestine? I read something yesterday that said that now after 30 years the Iranian population is ready for something other than Muslim extremists as their rulers -- but maybe Muslim countries have to have their extremists in charge for 25 years before they can finally moderate. I certainly hope not -- not for the people's sake and not for Israel's sake. It sure would be nice if they could actually leave the Middle Ages and come into the 21st Century without insanity taking charge first.
Curly Smith| 1.31.11 @ 8:12AM
Forget the Middle East, remember the USSR. If the Government falls there will be a power vacuum. Who's ready to step in to fill the void? In the USSR it was organized crime and the former KGB (but I repeat myself). In other countries it's also the criminal element plus those groups that were previously allied against the status quo. There aren't any meaningful pro-democracy groups in the Arab countries so unless the world steps in forcibly to institute reforms then the criminals and extremists will take over.
You can thank our Universities for the lack of democratic reform groups. It would be insensitive to expose other cultures to our western values. Democracy is just another form of imperialism. So when the extremist do take over send your congratulations to Yale, Harvard and all the other "elite" institutions. Another day in the Ivy League, another win for tyranny.
Ned| 1.31.11 @ 12:58PM
How about Moscow in 1917...?
justasimplepatriot| 1.31.11 @ 7:51AM
Does anyone think for a moment that all of this it is mere coincidence all of this is happening on Obama's watch? This is a President, elected by Muslim contributions. They thought is was an kindred spirit to their radicalism and weak. They were correct.
Elections have consequences. Unfortunately some of them dire. This one may set in motion the end of life as we know it.
saleboter| 1.31.11 @ 7:56AM
The 3:00 am phone call came and Obami didn't answer
Jack Daniels| 1.31.11 @ 8:05AM
obama is so green in the area of governing and in foreign policy he is even greener than green. It's non existant. The man never ceases to amaze me. AND scare the bejeezus out of me as well.
angellight| 1.31.11 @ 8:11AM
There seems to be a spiritual wave spreading accross the Middle East -- a demand for freedom, which as Pres. Obama has stated and everyone knows, is a basic universal right. Surely, the uprising in Egypt and Tunisia can be seen as a victory for the forces of light on this planet and for humanity as a whole. For those of us who know how to work with the energy of light, love and goodwill, we must direct this energy into that region, aiding those forces of light already working for reconstruction.
richard ryan| 1.31.11 @ 9:42AM
Freedom for the men maybe. That would be a possibility I suppose, if you consider Sharia law a freedom-based set of rules to base a society upon. I happen to think differently about it. Women are slaves in the majority of the Islamic world. Period.
KyMouse| 1.31.11 @ 12:07PM
I suppose this *could* be the dawning of the Age of Aquarius, with peace and love and unicorns, but it seems to me that this kind of power struggle creates a vacuum that is eagerly filled by Muslim thugs.
One person pointed out on Fox News a couple of days ago that the only "institution" that has infrastructure already in place in Egypt on a large scale, outside of the current government, is the Muslim Brotherhood. That is to say, the MB already a history of handing out food to the locals and doing other things to earn their friendship.
Not a good sign.
RAMIII| 1.31.11 @ 4:02PM
"the uprising in Egypt and Tunisia can be seen as a victory for the forces of light on this planet " and "For those of us who know how to work with the energy of light, love and goodwill, we must direct this energy into that region, aiding those forces of light already working for reconstruction."
Just remember what the Apostle Paul said about the "Angel of Light" in his 2nd letter to the Corinthians. (2 Cor 11:14-15) "And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light . . ."
Ken (Old Texican)| 1.31.11 @ 8:12AM
Egypt,
Will prove intractable.
Mark that down in in your personal journal.
Muslims simply don't have the tools...the foundation...to build a successful society.
For centuries they have been like mice in the walls, nibbling at the crumbs of western technological progress.
Now, due to the intervention of Western oil-men, they can sell oil and buy the toys of war.
They are no longer timid mice in the walls. Pehaps the best known scavengers of all? Hyenas?
Hyenas in the walls, folks, that are harmless until you go to sleep...unarmed.
At that point, they become deadly.
Be awake, and keep your shootin' irons handy.
Melvin| 1.31.11 @ 8:12AM
In a sense we are at the crossroads of where we were prior to Israel's Six Day War. The Muslim Brotherhood aka Iran will nullify the Peace Accords that Sadat signed with Israel in 1979.
So once again Israel will be surround by nations bend on it's destruction.
One thing for sure is the next Arab Israeli war is not going to fought like it was in 1967. It isn't going to be pretty people, and yes, it will touch everyone across the globe especially us here in the United States, because whether or not you want to admit this, the Muslim Brotherhood is alive and well and waiting right here in our front and back yards.
BackToBasics| 1.31.11 @ 7:03PM
This time, for Israel to avoid total destruction, thear would go nuclear. The MB hard-liner(s) that would likely be the head of Egypt in such a scenario are not as moderate as Sadat was and he actually launched the Yom Kippur war in 1973. He said he did it to get concessions from Israel but he did not wish for their destruction. Although he was lucky Cairo was not taken. His army was surrounded and only the threat of direct intervention from Russia stopped Israel from wiping out the Egyptian army. But although I do not remember all of what he said about starting the war, I still get the impression that Sadat was a "moderate" by Muslim standards.
I doubt we will be dealing with moderates once the MS and the hard-liners co-opt this uprising by the people. If this happens, within a few years, the coming war will shake everyone in the world.
BackToBasics| 1.31.11 @ 7:04PM
typo - to avoid total destruction, the war would
Mimi| 1.31.11 @ 8:15AM
Two positive facts to consider in our hour of concern: 1. The military, police ( some trained in the U.S.) are excellent. 2. The population is in support of the Muslim Brotherhood by only 20%. Hopefully, the forces of DEMOCRACY will win out. Mubarak should set a date in the near future to step down...to enable a smooth transition. It is important that 20% DO NOT win out which could very well happen. Pray that good wins out over EVIL. This Whitehouse is not able to handle all this....It lacks MORAL GROUNDING and is in desparate need to listen to some grown-ups.... Will their HUBRIS prevent that or will they call in a "JOHN BOLTON" or others????????
Donna| 1.31.11 @ 8:16AM
My thinking is that this was going to happen as soon as we flew over Bagdad and dropped bombs that March night nearly nine years ago. Democracy and capitalism is on the march in the Middle-East. Obama ring kissing and bowing to kings in the Middle East and excoriating Israel wasn’t the approach to take and so he has lost creditability for America, emboldened the uprising and is left with no successful strategy.
Louis Jenkins| 1.31.11 @ 8:22AM
If Eygpt undergoes the upheaval that we're all expecting, the Suez canal will become the swimming pool for Iran. Gone are the days when England and Fance would have stepped in, and Israel will find itself surrounded by the Muslim Brotherhood, Hamas, and just about every other group that can be thought of. Not advocating that the USA step in, but things do not look good.
BackToBasics| 2.1.11 @ 2:06AM
A friend of mine thinks Israel will do a preemptive nuclear strike if it finds itself surrounded like this. They will do it before Iran gets nuclear launch capability. I think he is right.
da monk| 1.31.11 @ 8:24AM
So, may I ask Mr. Oliver and the others above; what adivise to you have to offer to the President on how to handle the situation in Egypt?
Ken (Old Texican)| 1.31.11 @ 8:40AM
da monk,
I have NO advice for this President. He will not listen to it.
If I did have advice to give a decent president, I would suggest he first send in a carrier strike force to evacuate American citizens.
Second, turn off the money spigot.
Third, recognize that this will not end well.
(see my comment above)
da monk| 1.31.11 @ 9:31AM
Ken: 1) If you have no advise why complain?
2) I think he did send planes
3) I think he has threatened that
4) I am sure he is well aware as is everybody
Mimi| 1.31.11 @ 8:56AM
da monk.....The DEM'S and Their boss are being paid to HANDLE all situations...Are they not??
Like OLD HARRY said..." If you can't take the HEAT, get out of the KITCHEN " !!
Maybe it's time for all of the " KIDS" to RESIGN for the good of the COUNTRY!!
da monk| 1.31.11 @ 9:38AM
Mimi: 1) About Dems being paid to handle: Have Reps given any advise?
2) He's in the kitchen and he is getting heat and still no advise.
3) Who are you suggesting resign?
Can you think of a way to alleviate the situation without us sending in troops? As if that will help, See Iraq, Afganistan etc
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 10:02AM
"Can you think of a way to alleviate the situation without us sending in troops? As if that will help, See Iraq, Afganistan etc"
Like the idiot in charge, you don't appear to grasp the magnitude of this situation. This is not Iraq or Afghanistan. If Eqgypt falls to the Islamists think of this:
1. The Islamists would control the Suez Canal and therefore, the trade that passes through it.
2. The toppling of Egypt would certainly spur similar revolutions in other Arab states, potentially including several OPEC members.
What do you suppose THAT would do to the price of oil? The price of gas? The price of everything moved by petroleum based fuels?
The reality is that what we've been through the last couple of years economically is nothing compared to what we might experience is Egypt falls to the Islamists, so right off hand, I'd say sending in troops may be the ONLY response we have.
Mimi| 1.31.11 @ 11:42AM
ah....John Bolton has been vocal and speaking out....Maybe others need to be asked or their still in the back seat like they were told to stay. Time for heads to get together....the military in Eygpt must know who their bad guys are they, will hopfully put this thing down and soon. We should be on alert to help out if needed. OUR vital interests are on the line. I am optimistic !
Claypoole| 1.31.11 @ 1:54PM
I can think of one way to alleviate the situation as it will impact the US: start drilling for our own oil in those places oil companies judge will be most profitable. Resume drilling in the Gulf. Then, while drilling, start building new refineries, also in the US. Fast track permits for nuclear power plants. But, of course, the Obama administration will not allow any of this--makes you wonder whose side Barack is on.
RAMIII| 1.31.11 @ 4:10PM
da monk,
remember he doesn't NEED the Republicans. In his own words "I won!" Well . . . ? He's definitely got us there.
Btw the only result from anyone giving advice to this president would be to be ignored and then get the blame for him doing his own thing.
Remember -- if you will -- that it was in part President Carter's weakness in foreign policy that brought about the disastrous events in Iran during the late 1970's. What we have now is a WEAKER President.
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 9:41AM
My advice to him would be to loosen up the finger he's going to use to press the nuclear button, because if someone doesn't get a handle on this thing real soon that's going to be the only move he has left.
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 10:05AM
Here's some more advice I'll offer him - he needs to have a carrier task force in place not just to evacuate any Americans, but also to immediately destroy Egypt's ability to manufacture weapons and degrade their overall ability to wage war as soon as the Islamists are in charge.
W| 1.31.11 @ 3:48PM
Ask Hillary and Biden, they were selected because they are the foreign policy experts.
RAMIII| 1.31.11 @ 4:12PM
Heh! Excellent observation!!
A. C. Santore| 1.31.11 @ 8:48AM
“The things I never say never get me into trouble.” Calvin Coolidge
Ken (Old Texican)| 1.31.11 @ 9:20AM
Mr. Santore,
Try telling that to "Dubyah" Bush.
President Coolidge didn't have militant Muslims and domestic communists, (pardon the shorthand), howling at the gates.
Steve A| 1.31.11 @ 9:18AM
Here is the summary of The President's strategy: Wait to see who emerges in power, then claim to have backed them the whole way. Claim a victory for freedom & the Egyptian people. Take credit for it if violence is at a minnimum.
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 9:36AM
I sense from a few of the comments here that there are those on this site who harbor the illusion that what is going on in Egypt will/could lead to democracy. Forget it. Iran and the Muslim Brotherhood are behind this all the way, they may well be fomenting democratic leaning elements into taking to the streets to cover their tracks, but make no mistake about who will be running Egypt when this thing is over - it will be the Islamists in one form or another. They have more backing from abroad, are far more violent, and much better organized. They will prevail in this, and the consequences will be dire for the entire world. Consider that Israel will be surrounded by the Muslim Brotherhood, Hamas, and Hezbollah, all armed to the teeth and supported by Iran - AND - the US - try this link and read for yourself:
http://www.janes.com/articles/.....Egypt.html
The fact is that we have armed Egypt with both weapons and weapons technology because it has been a pretty reliable ally, and all that technical know-how is about to fall into the hands of the enemy. What do you think the Muslim Brotherhood will do with that equipment and technological know-how once they're in charge? Will Israel be able to fend off another full scale Arab attack on two or three fronts WITHOUT resorting to the use of nuclear weapons? If it can't, do you really want to think about those consequences?
This rapidly spreading revolution is the most significant international event since the fall of the Berlin Wall - and yes - I know that includes 9/11. If it's not handled properly it WILL lead to WWIII. As it is, the world sits back and watches the Middle East inch closer to Total War, and the modern equivalent of Neville Chamberlain declares a modern version of, "Peace in our time."
Seems to me we better start looking for the modern Winston Churchill.
da monk| 1.31.11 @ 9:40AM
And what will the Modern Winston Churchill do?
Steve A| 1.31.11 @ 9:53AM
First, have a drink, then try to locate Ike.
Ken (Old Texican)| 1.31.11 @ 10:00AM
Steve A
That was a shabby remark. Churchill stood all alone in the west against Hitler...FOR FOUR LONELY YEARS!
Steve A| 1.31.11 @ 10:08AM
Ken, Lighten up. I'm not knocking Winston. I just happen to think that he may want a nip & want to talk to his ally.
If Hitler had pressed the issue at Dunkirk, he would have been a non factor though.
Maddox| 1.31.11 @ 12:02PM
Obama ain't no Ike and any advisers who hold the views of Ike are locked out. We are in for frightening times.
George S| 1.31.11 @ 10:05AM
A clueless president and his equally clueless admirers.
Anthony| 1.31.11 @ 3:59PM
Get with the program George, it's a good day's work for "The One". An ally of America and Israel is hung out to dry by Obozo for the "Baghdad Bob" of the UN, Mohammad El Baredei and the Muslim Brotherhood.
It's Ahmedinejad, al qaeda, the MB: One. The US, Israel, and Egypt: O.
The new world order according to Obozo.
George S| 1.31.11 @ 4:59PM
Are you trying to say that Obama is looking at Egypt and seeing that its peace treaty with Israel after Israel's do-or-die wars of '67 and '73 signed by Sadat which led to his assassination which then installed Mubarak who continued the treaty and is the sole reason why the Middle East is not able to take out Israel and that with a democracy ("we are siding with the People!!") could usher in a majority of Muslim Brotherhood (ala Hezbollah in Jordan) thus negating the treaty with Israel and allying with Iran and possibly leading to a two front wipe-Israel-from-the-map holocaust with nuclear weapons on one side with a massive army from Egypt on the other?
That would be great day's work. Hardly sloppy thinking as the title of this article suggests.
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 10:12AM
Hopefully, the same thing the original Churchill did (you are familiar with Winston Churchill, World War II, right?) For one thing, he'll recognize Evil for what it is. That will already put him at least one step ahead of Obama, who couldn't tell the good guys from the bad guys with a program.
Ken (Old Texican)| 1.31.11 @ 10:01AM
Big E
Well spoken.
R Martin| 1.31.11 @ 10:11AM
There is such a flaming opportunity for the Republicans here, but I'm not hopeful they will grab it or push it adequately. I'm talking about energy policy. The whole 2012 campaign (all levels) should turn on developing independence--for real this time--and exploiting the huge resources we have. Forget silly electric car subsidies, wind subsidies, solar subsidies and (especially) ethanol subsidies and go big time for the petro resources. A well developed campaign would attract a huge majority of Americans with, perhaps, only those 20 percent who really want to be communists opposed. Not sure the cajones are there, however.
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 10:21AM
AMEN!
If we had a mature, responsible energy policy we could sit back and watch the nutcases in the Middle East kill each other.
When's the last time we built a nuclear power plant in this country? An oil refinery? 30 years? More?
The left bitches and complains about any effort to exploit our own resources, leaving us dependent on unstable foreign political situation, and then bitches and complains when those unstable situations fall apart and we find ourselves entangled in foreign problems.
GW| 1.31.11 @ 5:25PM
But where are the Republicans during this time? Republican presidents and Congresses have done nothing but pay lip service to American energy independence and have continued foreign aid to countries that haven't given much back. Sure, the left has impossible ideals of no foreign entanglements nor domestic energy extraction/production, but since when do we rely on them for revolutionary answers?
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 6:55PM
"Republican presidents and Congresses have done nothing but pay lip service to American energy independence and have continued foreign aid to countries that haven't given much back."
You'll get no argument from me on that. A responsible energy policy is a can that both parties have kicked down the road to our detriment.
Sandyhook| 1.31.11 @ 10:50AM
R. Martin, you are so right!
I recall well the oil crisis that started in October 1973, when the members of the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries or the OAPEC proclaimed an oil embargo in response to the U.S. decision to re-supply the Israeli military during the Yom Kippur war. It lasted until March 1974.
Here we are almost 40 years later still dependent on the products of some of the worst dictatorships. Neither Republicans or Democrats appear to have understood that America's security is tied to energy independence, or if they did, they have been horribly irresponsible in protecting the U.S. against another embargo.
In the next few months, i predict the costs of energy will skyrocket to untenable levels, and thus stall any economic recovery. In 1974 the costs of oil quadrupled. Deja vu.
It is of little value to complain about the current President. A better use of our time and efforts would be to insist that ALL of our elected officials put energy independence on the top of our agenda. Our economic independence depends on solving this dilemma.
jd| 1.31.11 @ 11:56AM
BINGO! And don't think for a minute that rising food costs had nothing to do with people rising up in Tunisia and Egypt. Thank Bernanke and the loony left's preoccupation with using corn for ethanol instead of using corn for....FOOD.
DRILL HERE, DRILL NOW BABY.
Paul in Colorado| 1.31.11 @ 5:47PM
You're right - we have the resources but it seems to be beneath our dignity to use them. Green lawfare over the past forty years has certainly impeded any progress toward energy independence, and who knows where we'd be today if every effort to develop domestic energy resources wasn't reflexively met with a decades-long delaying effort through the courts and regulatory agencies, conducted for the sole purpose of making the project unprofitable. This is a consequence of our allowing our courts and regulatory agencies to be misused in such a manner, and energy policy is not the only part of our lives to be so afflicted.
The ethanol subsidy, though, is in a class by itself. It is a crime against humanity, and completely indefensible. Little children in the Third World are going hungry because American taxpayers are driving up the price of corn by subsidizing its conversion into the fuel that our government mandates. This is obscene. Even if one can stomach that aspect and stick to the dollars and cents, as energy policy it is also insane. Ethanol's promoters act as though the corn magically appears on their doorsteps, and no energy was needed to plow the fields, manufacture and transport fertilizers, harvest and process the corn, etc. Put that in the balance and we end up with less energy and more hungry children.
I know that ADM greases a lot of palms in Washington, but this outrage must be stopped, and credit will go to the people who stop it.
YeloStalyn| 1.31.11 @ 10:19AM
The O needs (ideally... this isn't going to happen) put pressure on Mubarak to step down peacefully. Inform him that he has no chance at survival unless he wants to lose any and all credibility in the global stage with the West by gunning down protesters. If Mubarak resorts to suppressing the protest he can only do so in a bloodbath. That will not bode well for him in the West. The people will not tolerate their leaders continuing to support a regime who resorted to such an action. Mubarak's days are numbered.
IF he steps down, he can allow the situation to resolve before the Muslim Bro. can foment more anger and seek blood like the Russians did for the Czars or the French and their king. He needs to show humility and seek an apology when stepping down.
If this isn't resolved soon, then the MB will have time to stir the pot in such a way as to have established sway over the highly emotional populace. If the situation can end quickly, the masses will have a greater chance to feel as if they were responsible by having realistic complaints rather than being successful through violence.
But... more to the point of this article... violence IS a thing of beauty when done justly. A statement FAR too many American's have lost the truth of. Especially those on the right who trust tha those on the left truely beleive in non-violence.
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 10:24AM
I suspect the MB has already stirred this pot. It would the perfect way for them to pull off a coup - foment unrest among those legitimately disaffected by Mubarak, let them force him out in the name of "freedom" and "democracy," and then swoop in with their superior organization and backing and take over.
YeloStalyn| 1.31.11 @ 10:27AM
From what I have heard, they are the largest organized opposition group... but that doesn't necessitate that they are a majority, or even close. Thus... the speed at which this is resolved is key, IMO. The sooner we let the masses feel successful WITHOUT the MB goading them into a violent revolution, the better for us. Except for Jesus... no matter how hard you try, given enough time the devil on your shoulder can wear you down. We need to remove the temptation of the people, so to speak, PDQ.
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 11:08AM
I'm not asserting that the MB constitutes the majority. My assertion is that they are better organized and better backed, ergo, they will prevail, regardless of whether this crisis resolves itself quickly or drags out over time.
Remember, the Bolsheviks were not the majority in Czarist Russia, either, but they were better organized and more violent than the Kerensky led faction that took over following the February Revolution.
da monk| 1.31.11 @ 11:20AM
Yelo Stayln please explain what you mean "violence IS a think of beauty if done justly" How do you judge the "beauty" of violence?. And what do you mean "justly"? Who is to judge what is just?
YeloStalyn| 1.31.11 @ 12:47PM
It is a beautiful thing when the US saved the Jews from a continued Holocaust. It was a beautiful thing when the Colonists overthrew the oppressive Crown of England and established that man COULD rule himself and was not bound inherently to subjegate himself to another.
WAR precedes the defeat of true evil. PEACE only follows. I love peace... don't get me wrong... but you holding hands and singing Kumbya won't stop evil. Only force will. It would be ideal if all things could be resolved peacably... but that's a pipe dream and those who don't recognize that are doomed to slavery.
Doctor Right| 1.31.11 @ 10:22AM
"Good people of Egypt...As you struggle for freedom, democracy, and basic human and political rights, have NO fear: I will be fine."
- President B. Hussein Obama
(This clown is in SO FAR over his head it's not even funny.)
Doctor Right| 1.31.11 @ 10:24AM
Never miss an opportunity to exploit a crisis, right Rahm?
With the price of oil creeping upwards, and sure to go higher, it's "high-time" the Republicans start chanting the phrase that ALMOST won for them in 2008:
"DRILL, BABY, DRILL!"
335blues| 1.31.11 @ 10:28AM
"Now ultimately," said the president, "the future of Iran will be determined by the Iranian people." Nobody ever heard obama utter these words. I changed the words above substituting Iran and Iranian for Egypt and Egyptian to highlight a point that seems very clear to me. The difference between the Egyptian and the Iranian uprisings to obama can be easily explained which side he is on and rooting for. In both cases obama was and is on the side of radical islamonazis. Why didn't obama speak out on the side of the peaceful protestors in Iran who are tortured and killed daily in Iran? Because obama is not on the side of the people of Iran. obama is on the side of radical islam in Iran. A similar outcome to Iran could unfold in Egypt where the radical islamonazis of the muslim brotherhood could gain power. Whatever happens in Egypt, formation of a democracy is a very low probabilty. A more likely outcome if mubarak falls is that he will be replaced by another dictatorial regime, possibly led by the muslim brotherhood. It seems that this is precisely what obama seeks.
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 11:13AM
I think Obama's actions in these two situations can be better explained by his staggering incompetence. He didn't support the people in Iran because he's basically a coward who will never stand up for what is right - and he paid a political price for it. So this time, when there is a popular uprising, he takes the side of the "people," because failing to do so last time cost him politically.
He lacks the intelligence to understand the difference between what is going on in Egypt now and what went on in Iran before. He does not understand the difference between Mubarak and Ahmadinijad, or between the protesters in the streets of Cairo and those in the streets of Tehran.
As I said in another post - he can't tell the good guys from the bad guys with program.
da monk| 1.31.11 @ 11:26AM
The Shah was toppled in 1979 since then we have had Reagan for 8 years, Bush I for 4 years, Clinton for 8 years, Bush II for 8 years: That's 28 years and nothing has been done about Iran. So why blame Obama who has been in office for a little more than 2 years? Your premise is illogical
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 2:08PM
da monk,
You are aware that I am referring to the people in the streets of Tehran LAST YEAR, right? Not 1978, 2010. Were you not paying attention at the time?
It was Obama abandoned those people trying to topple the regime of Mahmoud Ahmadinijad, not any of his predecessors.
Bob Grant| 1.31.11 @ 1:43PM
I would agree with your basic premise but strongly disagree with your assertion that Barry paid a political price because of his incompetence handling the Iranian demonstrations.
The fact is, and what will probably cause this country irreparable damage on many fronts (both internationally and domestically), Barry NEVER pays a political price for actions taken or not taken. He now has a proven 2-year resume of both incompetent actions and in-actions; a list too staggering in it's length to post here.
With an all-too-eager-to-be-duped electorate and a border line, criminally biased media supporting him, nothing will change.
The scary aspect is not that we know he is weak and incompetent but that ambitious, powerful, aggressive countries are aware as well.
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 2:12PM
I agree fully with analysis, Bob, except that it is obvious that Obama has paid a political price for something over the last couple of years. His dropping approval ratings and the outcome of the November elections shows that. Certainly, those can be attributed primarily to his mis-handling of the economy, but his overall performance of foreign policy, specifically including his limp-wristed performance on Iran - both as regards the Tehran demonstrations and the Iranian nuclear program - have played a part as well.
Chalkdust| 1.31.11 @ 10:45AM
Barry H. Nobama's seminal moment has come and gone, at least as far as he's concerned. The American economy will heal it's self with the help of others, not him.
America is left with no arrows in it's quiver to meet this newest historically seminal moment. A President and his staff of advisor completely out of their league. Broken or poorly lead; CIA, NSA and State Department. U.S. Military out breath from fighting two wars simultaneously and also poorly lead. I mean not even able to sustain "DADT" and fight off the troglodytes.... pitiful.
All we can be sure of is these next few days will cost the lives of our brave men and women in uniform somewhere down the road.
Melvin| 1.31.11 @ 11:06AM
Alright all you K-Mart Blue Light Shoppers here is the gist of it:
Fact 1, we know that no matter who gets to sit on Pharaoh's s thrown it won't be democratic or representative.
Fact 2, The Muslim Brotherhood is the, "It Guys" and with their track record, they make Mubarak look like a kindly grandfather.
Fact 3 The old lion has stomach cancer with no discernible heir to the thrown since junior bugged out to England and the Egyptian military loathes for his lack of experience. Mubarak may have mellowed in his old age and not longer has the iron will to suppress a revolt like this.
The unknowns:
1. Has the military been infiltrated by the Muslim Brotherhood to the point of where Mubarak leaves, and it allows a fundamentalist government to lead Egypt.
2. As some have noted, What about all the military stuff we have sold Egypt. Iran would love nothing more than to gets it's little paws on it.
Another thought how up to date is this military hardware? From what I could tell the armored vehicles didn't look all that modern. M60 Tanks and a mix of Soviet personnel carriers. Since Egypt was no longer an enemy of Israel and really didn't have any traditional enemies maybe it's hardware was more for defense than offense.
3. When, if at all will Iran walk into the sunlight and claim credit. One thing is for sure Persians and Arabs love to talk mass quantities of macho bull squeeze. Iranians will want to publicly take credit for the fall of Mubarak, but the Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood will not want to share the spotlight either, and they will want to claim credit. This could backfire on Iran, but if the fundamentalist clerics are positioned to take control of the mosques, they will take all internal attention away and point it at Israel and the Great Satan solidifying their control of all of Egypt.
I dunno people, after looking at this, it at least to me doesn't look like some spur of the moment Jeffersonian Democracy thing, but a well orchestrated military operation to destabilize a sitting government. and Iran has it's little greasy fingerprints all over this one.
It sure is looking like we are in a physical proxy war with the Persians one nation state at a time. Iran doesn't want the regions oil fields destroyed it just wants to control them as a political weapon.
It is a well known fact that the Saudis have wired their wells with explosives deep within the well pipe and if anyone gets froggy the Saud's will push the button, but then again were is the well-spring of Islamic fundamentalism? Of course, non other than Saudi Arabia. This provides for interesting analysis over cocktails doesn't it?
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 11:18AM
I think you're basically correct, except as to the military hardware in question. My understanding is that we have sold Egypt several hundred M1A1 tanks along with a license to manufacture their own, which they have been doing. It is also my understanding that we sold them several hundred Hellfire anti-tank missiles.
Yeah, I think the Iranians would love to get their hands on that stuff.
Ned| 1.31.11 @ 1:13PM
yes, Eqypt has and builds their own M1A1 - not A2, and not with the advanced armor...
Steve A| 1.31.11 @ 11:21AM
This whole Egypt mess clearly lies at the feet of Sara Palin.
Her lack of foreign policy experience projected weakness to the Muslim Brotherhood & they siezed this opportunity to act & attempt to take control. Further, her violent rhetoric has been translated & forwarded via Facebook to Egypt & ignighted this firestorm.
John| 1.31.11 @ 11:58AM
Revolution is coming to the Arabs . The chains of American imperialism are loosening . Saudi will be next . I wander were the USA will get it's oil now that they can't steal it. I recommend that you stop wasting time on these boards and start digging. It's time you earned your way in this world. Printing dollars is not going to help in the long run. If Saudi falls then I also suggest you some big guns because it's going to get pretty hairy. The USA is hated in Latin America, Africa, ME, Asia, Russia, Europe. Have you not figured it out yet. let me spell out what people in the ME want. They want you out out out out out out out out. I hope that helps . By the way I'm not cruel I'll be sending you a spade to dig for oil. may god bless the Arabs and egytian people. They have shown a courage that Americans have not shown against the abuse of crony capitalism.
Doctor Right| 1.31.11 @ 12:27PM
Dear Johny:
Sorry, but we can't leave yet. We need your oil, and since we're the USA, the most advanced and important nation on the face of the planet, we're going to have it.
Now, we're having a little crisis of leadership of our own here in the USA. The panty-waist Liberals managed to seize the reigns of power (happens every 30 years or so), and as a result, around the world, the natives are restless.
But have no fear! Within 2 years (maybe sooner!), a stronger, Pro-American Government will retake power, and part of their platform will be a strong program for domestic oil-drilling.
This agenda will make many Americans happy, Johny, and it should make you happy, too! The ONE thing that would enable the USA to disengage from the Middle-East would be reliance on our own oil and energy supplies. If we could do that, then we could get "out, out, out, out" of the puss-hole known as the Arab World.
As an added benefit, the governments of the Middle-East would be thrown into absolute turmoil by the decline in oil revenues. It would be soooo sad for all of us Americans to watch that part of the world descend into it's natural, savage
state as Muslims killed muslims, non-muslims killed muslims, and general mayhem ensued...But it would also be FUN, TOO!!
America HAS earned our way in the world, Johny...That's why we're a super-power, and that's why most Arab countries couldn't organize a Sunday picnic without our money or muscle! I mean, all you guys together got your collective, weenie asses kicked by l'il Israel not once, but twice!!! Arab soldiers are good at beating-up littlke girls and surrendering, but not much else, Johny.
But again...Isn't is ironic that you and I share the same dream? The USA out of the Middle-East! (But here's the irony, Johny...Once we're gone, you'll be the one that regrets it!)
Steve A| 1.31.11 @ 12:41PM
Hey Johnny, I thought Gulf War I & the ousting of Saddam was "war for oil" so we should be all set. Oh, wait, you mean we did not confiscate all of the oil? Damn. I believed you the whole time......I suppose we kinda need to brush up on our Imperialism efficency.
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 2:28PM
Personally, I would be thrilled if we never, NEVER bought a drop of oil drilled out the cursed sands of the Middle East.
Of course, the people would continue to slaughter each other, just as they have done for thousands of years, and would still blame us for their problems even if we pulled out completely and never said another word to them or purchased another drop of oil from them.
Ken (Old Texican)| 1.31.11 @ 12:14PM
Steve,
Hardy har har! (not really)
The Muslim die-off begins. Egypt is starving. North Africa will follow.
Steve A| 1.31.11 @ 12:19PM
Ken, Thanks. I confirmed my "opinion" with Shreiff Dipturd in AZ prior to posting.
The problem is that the starving will be the fault of the USA according to worldwide opinion.
Bob Grant| 1.31.11 @ 1:55PM
"The problem is that the starving will be the fault of the USA according to worldwide opinion."
Including our wonderful nobel peace prize winning leader.
NavyBrat | 1.31.11 @ 12:27PM
While I think that these protests in Egypt are a little different than those that took place in Iran, we have to examine this President's reticence to do anything during that little fiasco. There was one of those opportunities that comes once in a lifetime to supplant a Muslim theocratic state with something more akin to Democracy. Those kids were shot down in the streets like dogs by the Basiji thugs. And nothing was said. The video of Needa, the Iranian girl who was shot by a sniper & bled out on the street, did nothing to sway Obama from keeping his thumb in his tuchus.
Given this past track record, I'm not going to hold my breath on what Obama will do in this situation. The Muslim Brotherhood has already backed El Baradei, & he has spoken glowingly of them just this past weekend. Since El Baradei is a former UN stooge, then this will be all the credibility that he needs for the libs & this administration to support him, regardless of whether or not the guy turns into a stooge for the Brotherhood.
There's a regular listener on the Memphis morning show I listen to who's from Egypt. His name is Khalid. His entire family is over there. He called in this morning to talk about what was going on. He said that his father was a veteran of the war with Israel who thought that Mubarak's peace deal with Israel is the best thing he's done. He said that vets of that war, like his Dad, didn't want that to go by the wayside. That they'd seen enough of war.
He also said that, despite Mubarak's heavy handedness, Egypt is still NOTHING like the Shari'a hellhole that is Saudi Arabia & that those protesting.g in the streets won't stand for that type of gov't. I hope he's right. And I hope that the members of his family are in the majority with their sentiments. Khalid is a guy who REGULARLY thanks G*d for this country. He always says that he's thankful to G*d that there's a place he could come to be truly free. If only more men like Khalid would have the testicular fortitude to speak up. Islam would be well served if they did. But the sad fact is that in most Islamic countries, guys like Khalid & his family are veiwed as apostates & have fatwas taken out on them if they DO speak up. Sad. Very sad.
LMajito| 1.31.11 @ 12:42PM
seeing the folks in the me countries openly voicing their yearnings to be free gladdens my heart. once the cry for freedom goes out and their listeners respond, no human power can stop its consequences.
that the us has bankrolled these oppressed masses tyrants for years, in the name of profit, shows once more how decayed has the morality of the political whores in dc (and the people how keeps on electing them) has been, regardless of party affiliation.
if the french had opted for a "stable world" where to conduct business and gain more profits rather that side with the yanks wanting to break the british yoke, we probably still refer to the members of the house of windsor as our royals and these 50 states as colonies of the commonwealth.
now as i watch one by one of those nations shake off their tyrants, brings back memories of the iron curtain collapse.
nobody can claim credit for it, players come and go but the folks are getting their freedom.
the talking heads and us politicos can only speak of the fear of the unknown...why? their banking balances are at stake...
it was written long ago in the middle east by one of their wisest kings, that the wicked man fears and runs without nobody chasing him.
all of these 'fearful concern citizens' should just shut up, count their filthy lucre and let these people, who for far too long have lived under unthinkable cruelty, inhumane conditions and the ever present prospect of instant death (if they're lucky) or torture until their last breath.
why is the us navy still protecting the strait of hormuz while the oil monopolies keep the world hostage to their pricing schemes? what's the us leadership doing about it? not a thing, because they are bought and paid for. no matter what party. gw is as much as a whore as bho and np, hr or newt baby.
they'll talk manure and do nothing...want to reduce the price of oil overnight? activate two mandates using the executive order (like billy did in the early 90's to remove them) mandating that all of oil future contracts must: 1) put 50% of its value in an escrow account, 2) must provide proof that have the storage capacity to purchase it. this will remove the speculators over night...
but mr. clinton got bought back them by the oil cartels and look at us now...paying for an over priced product in this artificial 'free and unregulated trade' world...
Bob Grant| 1.31.11 @ 1:59PM
Yep. These struggling ME countries fighting for their freedom so they can hand it RIGHT BACK to some islamic cleric.
Let freedom ring :-)
John| 1.31.11 @ 12:51PM
Dear dr dolittle
Once you remove your hands from the Arab throught maybe they'll start having a civilised discussion with you. Just a suggestion. but I do believe that since you've already wiped half their countries of the map that you won't go easily. you guys are number one in league tably, hitler, Mao, Stalin equal second . It not a nice table to be in. but then again a nation that Denies its own people health care, murders 10s of thousands of their fellow citizens is capable of anything. Rest assured dr dolittle that we are definatley afraid. But like the Egyptians we might surprise you.
May god bless all those who fight tyranny where ever it is found. Day one of ME revolution. Can you palestinian refugees packing their bags to go jome in isreal. Listen harder.
Melvin| 1.31.11 @ 12:58PM
Why are Palestinians still in the slums?
LMajito| 1.31.11 @ 1:36PM
to feed the leftist bleeding media elites...these camps are usually in the middle of urban areas of 50k+ habitants...oh think of slum areas in any given us metropolitan area...in houston a drive the its ne section and one can't believe this city has those type of abodes...not to mention countless of humans living in squalor in tents...just like the me refugees....
Melvin| 1.31.11 @ 2:12PM
Alright, then why does the Palestinian leadership lived in seaside villas?
Steve A| 1.31.11 @ 1:04PM
Hey John, Ttrust me pal. Pack up your snake charmer flute, pointy shoes & magic carpet & hit the bricks. We do not want ANYTHING from you & you, frankly, have nothing to offer.
Doctor Right| 1.31.11 @ 1:33PM
Dear Johny,
If you knew how to spell, you might be dangerous.
Hate to tell you, but the Arab-Islamic world reached their peak sometime around the middle-ages. It's been all downhill from there ever since. And you'd still be racing camels and growing sand if the west hadn't discovered oil in your backyard and foolishly given that yard back to you out of some bizarre sense of noblesse oblige.
God will bless those who fight tyranny. But since God does not approve of the hateful philosophy known as "Islam", you might be out of luck. Blowing-up people in street cafes and restaurants is not exactly bravery, is it?
Remember: As a good Arab soldier, when you wave your white flag, wave it high and say "U.S.A. Number 1! America Number 1!". Then maybe some nice, decent American soldier won't shoot you. Maybe...
CUFFS| 1.31.11 @ 1:02PM
Better for Obama to keep silent and
be thought a fool than to open his mouth and remove all doubt.
He is in over his head, has no knowledge of
history, thus cannot understand the cause
of the Egypt riots--one word: Suez Canal.
Tim the Enchanter| 1.31.11 @ 1:36PM
Two comments: One- the Kenyan is good for one thing- he shows us every day the difference between statesmen and politicians. Two: read Genesis about the prophecy concerning Ismael and his children, esp. the part about "his hand against everyone and everyone against him" and "he shall pitch his tents against his brothers". Not much has changed in the Arab world in the past 4000-odd years, has it?
John| 1.31.11 @ 2:39PM
Dear dr dolittly
Let me first agree that killing innocent people is indeed terrorism which the last true religion revealed to mankind al Islam condems without reservation. But the terrorism carried out by your industrial military complex to steal oil has no limits. The death of millions is cheered on this website. the only way you will gain respect is to withdraw your armies from ME. Peace and understanding can then begin to flour.
Every civilisation has a golden-yours is busted- when was the last time you payed your way in the world (remember the continues deficits including under reagen). You now get by on printed fake dollars and money from the peoples republic ( or the irony of it).Yes you have done great things. But you need to adapt a civilised approach to othe countries to stand any chance of being around in the next 100 years. The Arabs have now put you on notice. Don't be on the wrong side of history. Get your armies, bases out and cut the strings from Mubarak , king abdualuH and co. You never know the Arabs might even through you a few BonEs.
Doctor Right| 1.31.11 @ 3:14PM
Dear Johny:
First of all, there is a "Reply" button that you could use, thus sparing the respondent the pain of searching for one of your incoherent diatribes...But I digress.
Secondly, your spelling of the Queen's English, a Western language (indeed, THE global language) still stinks. Perhaps instead of your jealous, grammatically-poor griping about the grand achievements of Western Civilization, you could show a little gratitude and purchase a dictionary? That would be the courteous thing to do, and I was always led to believe that Arab-Muslim culture is, if nothing else, courteous...That is, when they're not detonating bombs in cafes, raping woman and then stoning them to death for "adultery", or sodomizing boys (like your hero Arafat).
In that regard, I find it highly amusing when a devotee of one of the world's most savage philosophies (that would be Islam) feels justified in preaching civility...But I suppose the irony is lost on you?
The Arabs have put us "on notice"??? Excuse us while we quake with fear! Would these be the same Arabs who were running around on camels while the western world was evolving into modern, technologically sophisticated, democratic societies? The same Arabs who folded like cheap tents when the Israelis counter-attacked in '67 and '73? The same Arabs seen crying like little school-girls to surrender in the first Gulf war? THOSE Arabs??? We're sooooooooooo scared!
Sorry, but you have something we need, and unless you can physically push us out, we're staying! Does that BOTHER you Johny? Make you feel small, and impotent?
Get on the right side of history, Johny. Obama is only a transitory figure. This country won't always be ruled by cowards and fools. Most of us would have been quite happy to unleash hell on the entire Muslim world after 9/11...So be careful, Johny! Or you might just get your wish...
John| 1.31.11 @ 4:24PM
Unleashing he'll. I think that what you've doing for the last fifty years. Look where it's got you. it's true there's not much I can do. My life savings are in this iPhone - a great American product. More of this pleae and less of the occupations. Your very un-American .
NavyBrat | 1.31.11 @ 6:49PM
Aww, look how cute! Some mooselimb posting from his mud hut in the West Bank is lecturing people on how to be a "true American." Wonders never cease.
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 3:21PM
"Let me first agree that killing innocent people is indeed terrorism which the last true religion revealed to mankind al Islam condems without reservation."
Sorry bud, but you're not getting away with that baloney here. I've read the Koran, and its the most violent, hate-filled so-called "religious" text I've ever seen. And while I make no claim to being a Koranic scholar, there are obviously several thousands Mullahs who are, and who seem to have somewhat of a disagreement with your interpretation, since they actively recruit people to blow themselves up and take as many innocents with them as possible. So don't give us that "religion of peace," crap. Talk is cheap, and the actions of the Muslim world over the past 1200 years speak far, far louder than your completely hollow words.
John| 1.31.11 @ 4:02PM
The Quran is a socio historic document and has to be analysed within that context. It has absolutely no volence in the sense that it encourages people to carry out violent acts. Most of the Quran is about the reality of existence and that all worship should be directed towards the creator. The verses regarding violence were reveiled during a time of war, when the small Muslim community was facing annihalation at the hands of pagan forces. the quranic essence is one of peaceful coexistence with all. and anyway the Islamic world is still largely under western imperial influence. See comments on this site. But that is nearing it's end. You will then see a renaissance a new flowering of Islamic civilisation. The Quran is in the Arabic language. It's transdental beauty can only be appreciated in arabic. Please listen on the Internet to appreciate.
Ken (Old Texican)| 1.31.11 @ 4:25PM
John,
Bottom line, without the West, Muslims starve.
Your people don't know how to operate the oil fields, and you can't grow enough food.
You folks are so screwed, (starving), without us.
Doctor Right| 1.31.11 @ 5:11PM
Rubbish.
I'm so sick of Muslims telling me that the Koran has to be analysed "within context". That basically means that one can apply any meaning to it that suits one's purposes, which is of course what the Islamo-fascists and their apologists do all the time.
Islam is an evil, violent philosophy. It encourages Muslims to carry-out violence against non-Muslims. To deny this is to reveal one's self as either an idiot, or a liar.
Additionally, the idea that the "beauty" can only be appreciated in one specific language is bizarre, to say the least, and a stark contrast with Christianity, which communicates the same message in ANY language.
Islam is about control; the word itself means "submission". It is antithetical to Western Civilization. The two cannot coexist. One must surrender to the other.
Well, Johny...history has proven the downfall of fascist regimes and ideologies, many at the hands of the USA. Keep poking us, and you might be next.
Hitler and Tojo thought we were weak, too, and you see what happened to them, right? And they were MUCH TOUGHER than the entire Islamic World.
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 5:13PM
"It has absolutely no volence in the sense that it encourages people to carry out violent acts."
Oh really, why don't check out just a small portion of that non-violence from the Koran itself.
K2:191 And kill them wherever you find them, and drive them out from whence they drove you out, and persecution is severer than slaughter, and do not fight with them at the Sacred Mosque until they fight with you in it, but if they do fight you, then slay them; such is the recompense of the unbelievers.
K8:12-16 When your Lord revealed to the angels: I am with you, therefore make firm those who believe. I will cast terror into the hearts of those who disbelieve. Therefore strike off their heads and strike off every fingertip of them. This is because they acted adversely to Allah and His Apostle; and whoever acts adversely to Allah and His Apostle-- then surely Allah is severe in requiting (evil). This-- taste it, and (know) that for the unbelievers is the chastisement of fire. O you who believe! when you meet those who disbelieve marching for war, then turn not your backs to them. And whoever shall turn his back to them on that day-- unless he turn aside for the sake of fighting or withdraws to a company-- then he, indeed, becomes deserving of Allah's wrath, and his abode is hell; and an evil destination shall it be.
K9:5 So when the sacred months have passed away, then slay the idolaters wherever you find them, and take them captives and besiege them and lie in wait for them in every ambush, then if they repent and keep up prayer and pay the poor-rate, leave their way free to them; surely Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.
K4:89 They desire that you should disbelieve as they have disbelieved, so that you might be (all) alike; therefore take not from among them friends until they fly (their homes) in Allah's way; but if they turn back, then seize them and kill them wherever you find them, and take not from among them a friend or a helper.
K33:60 - 61 If the hypocrites and those in whose hearts is a disease and the agitators in the city do not desist, We shall most certainly set you over them, then they shall not be your neighbors in it but for a little while; Cursed: wherever they are found they shall be seized and murdered, a (horrible) murdering.
K47:4 So when you meet in battle those who disbelieve, then smite the necks until when you have overcome them, then make (them) prisoners, and afterwards either set them free as a favor or let them ransom (themselves) until the war terminates. That (shall be so); and if Allah had pleased He would certainly have exacted what is due from them, but that He may try some of you by means of others; and (as for) those who are slain in the way of Allah, He will by no means allow their deeds to perish.
Now let's check the Hadith of Bukari, another canonical text of the religion of peace:
52:177 Allah's Apostle said, "The Hour will not be established until you fight with the Jews, and the stone behind which a Jew will be hiding will say. "O Muslim! There is a Jew hiding behind me, so kill him."
52:256 The Prophet passed by me at a place called Al-Abwa or Waddan, and was asked whether it was permissible to attack the pagan warriors at night with the probability of exposing their women and children to danger. The Prophet replied, "They (i.e. women and children) are from them (i.e. pagans)." I also heard the Prophet saying, "The institution of Hima is invalid except for Allah and His Apostle."
That the sort of non-violence you're talking about? And while you're onto context, let's try this - how did "the religion of peace" spread across north Africa and into southern Europe? At the point of a sword. Mohamed spent much of his life at war, and upon his death, his successors continued on that tradition and have done so to this day.
The only way Islam is a religion of peace is if you define peace as a state wherein everyone who is not Islamic has been exterminated.
John| 1.31.11 @ 6:06PM
A lot of quotations and no context. Don't ever get into religious studies you might find that your simplistic approach will not get you far. You occupy a man's country, rape and pillage his resources , support the villist dictator, torture an entire region ,help to imprision an entire nation on the earth - the palestinians, etc.. But no that doesn't explain the resistance that you face. Instead it's apparently a religious text from the 6th century thats causing you problems-you need to grow and grow some brain cells. The Greeks, persians, Romans, europeans etc had vast empires and so did the Arabs get over it. in the entire history of the prophets life the Muslim faced genocide but only a few hundred were killed in all these wars over a 32 year period. Your soldiers kill thousand of women and children each day in ME afghanistan. And you have the gall to mention muslim violence. You sir have truly no share. Get your bases and fleets out of the ME. your country was built on the extermination of indigenous people, the enslavement of Africans . You have a very very shameful history. The Islamic history by any measure was a beacon of light and hope. when USA occupation of ME ends it will rekindle a new beginning for these lands that will be shining beacon for humanity.
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 7:16PM
Which context do you prefer John? The context of Muslims invading North Africa and the Fertile Crescent during the Rashdun Caliphate? The context of their invasion of Spain and France during the Umayyad Caliphate? The Context of the invasion of the Caucasus from 711 to 750? Maybe the context of their invasion and conquest of Nubia: from 700 to 1606? The Mulim incursions into southern Italy staring in 83 1? How about the context of the conquest of Anatolia from 1060 to 1360? The ultimate conquest of the Byzantine Empire from 1299 to 1453? The invasions of Eastern Europe? Central Asia? India?
The historical "context" shows 1400 years of constant, offensive warfare against anyone who is not Muslim.
I have said it on this site before and I will say it again - Islam has been at war with civilization since its founding, and will be at war with civilization until its extermination. Your "context" only supports my conclusions.
John| 1.31.11 @ 8:01PM
What a load misdirection . You are causing mayhem in the world today but no you have to jump to some fairy tale history from the past. the Zionist are very good at dredging up fairy takes from two thousand years ago to ethnically cleanse peole. Did they study history at the same place you did- the college of fairy tales. What the egyptian people are doing is fantastic. where egypt goes The ME will follow. In all the time you guys have wasted posting today-you could have been digging for oil. I hope you find loads then maybe some sense can come to you. you are about to exist the ME can you please take zinofacists with you. We won't be missing you.
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 9:10PM
My history is accurate. It may be inconvenient for your position, but it is accurate. Check it for yourself if you dare to face the reality of the "religion of peace."
Even in this very post you verify the continuing reality of that history of violence. When we leave the ME take the "zinofacists" with us? I assume you're referring to the Jews? The same people the "prophet" said the rocks would betray to you so you could kill them? The same people who have just as long- ooops that's not right - a much LONGER history in the region than you do?
Religion of peace my ass.
W| 1.31.11 @ 8:36PM
Right John, you gotta understand the context, then it is ok to kill the infidels; Stay in the ME
Occam's Tool| 1.31.11 @ 9:17PM
Dear John,
explain the siege of Vienna, the sacking of Constantinople, the battle of Tours (in France?) AD 732?
I also believe Muhammed had a thing for pre-pubescent girls.
YeloStalyn| 1.31.11 @ 3:21PM
In case you missed it... pretty much everyone on this site would LOVE to:
1- NOT print fake money and pay off our debt so that we're not playing with other people's money (something you chastise us for... but it's the Liberals who do this, not the Conservatives)
2- Get out of the ME and not back corrupt individuals. Most of us here would likely proclaim it better to back the weak yet moral and just leader over the crooked and corrupt powerful one. To sell one's self out is to sell one's soul and many here would be loath to do taht.
3-We do NOT cheer at the death's of millions. In fact, we cheer in the liberation of millions even if that means it comes at the deaths of some (who are tyrannical and evil).
It seems like you agree with us more than you would like to admit but keep putting up some paper tiger to make arguments against. It's funny how most people who aren't true liberals but buy into the "conservatives are evil" mantra often end up agreeing with conservatives on just about everything even if they're too proud to admit it.
John| 1.31.11 @ 3:44PM
My disagreement with you lies in the way you project power which is contrary to your own civilisational standards . your military presence in ME is not welcome by the people. They are cause of instability and against your national interest . once these dictatorships are you will find that actually they may willingly become your allies. However if you stand in the way of freedom or dispahrage their faith then yourfuture in the ME is numbered. Do you really want to prop up Mubarak, abdullah and the rest. You are the cause of the violence. For your own sake please stop. ANd by the way inless you reduce industrial complex you will never reduce the deficits etc.
W| 1.31.11 @ 3:53PM
brother john, nice you need a better translation from the arabic, invest in better translation software, or learn English
DaPicayune| 1.31.11 @ 4:00PM
John: "Yes you have done great things." That's right John we certainly have, including finding, developing and producing petroleum products for a group of ME Bedouin goat herders, while their Muslim Brotherhood brethren were busy plotting with Adolph Hitler & his Third Reich to kill all the Jews and Christians, in their quest to rule the world. Remember their slogan: Allah in Heaven, Hitler on Earth"? Do teach us more!
YeloStalyn| 1.31.11 @ 4:29PM
Be fair now... "Allah in Heaven, Hitler on Earth" sound so bad in English... you need to hear it in Arabic to see how peaceful it really is.
ABNCP| 1.31.11 @ 2:40PM
The way this mess will probably turn out is that the Egyptian military will insure the present government disolves, Mubarak has to go. When their military makes that happen they will take over the government for a period of time in order to stabilize the country. Then some kind of elections will be held to bring in a new government. There is no way their military is going to allow the Muslim Brotherhood to take control of the country. However, this President and his administration could really screw things up if that is his real intent. Does he really want to allow radical Muslims to suceed? It is a statement that should not even be thought of, but who knows what this guy is really all about. His track record allows many Americans to ask those kind of questions. Of course the Democrat party's past history on dealing with any sucess in this part of the world is pretty damm depressing so who knows?
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 3:25PM
Not to disparage your analysis, but what evidence do you have to support your claim that, "There is no way their military is going to allow the Muslim Brotherhood to take control of the country?"
Bill| 1.31.11 @ 2:50PM
"...........Violence and destruction will not lead to the reforms that they seek." Ah, there was this event called the American Revolutionary War. It WAS violent. It did succeed in leading to the creation of a free nation. Apparently Obozo has forgotten this most fundemental fact of American history.
YeloStalyn| 1.31.11 @ 3:25PM
+1
I really am getting tired of so many people propping up "non-violence" in the face of evil. Maybe we should have just shipped a bunch of young men over to France and told them to just lock arms and walk up the beaches and their show of peace and solidarity would move the earth and defeat the Nazis without resorting to violence.
That would have totally happened if only we would have tried it.... totally...
ABNCP| 1.31.11 @ 4:06PM
Mr. Big E. The Egyptain military is the most powerful military in that party of the world, not counting Israel ,over 500,000. We have provided it over 28 Billion worth of weapons and training. Forget about Iran. The Egyptians have M1A2's, they have Apaches, they have F-15's and their equipment is in good working order since there are many American Techs working with them. Their hierarchy has memories of what happened to the Iranian military in 1978 when Carter allowed the racicals to take over.
They are not about to let the same thing happen to them. Only about 20% of the country supports the Muslim Brotherhood. Most Egyptains are not radical Muslims despite what you are seeing on the steets of Cairo. Of course anything could still happen. We will see how this administration handles what is going to be the most important crisis they have faced yet, maybe ever during what I hope is their short remaining tenure. So far it's fingernail biteing time.
The Big E| 1.31.11 @ 5:17PM
I sincerely hope your analysis of the Egyptian military, as regards its position vis-a-vie the extremists is correct. But do we really know where their loyalties lie? Or are we speculating?
Ken (Old Texican)| 1.31.11 @ 5:27PM
Big E
Please contact me at sales@texassaidno.com
(My publishing agent)
I would really like to chat with you.
Best regards
Ken
Paul in Colorado| 1.31.11 @ 6:15PM
I hope you're right, and that the military will be a stablizing force over the short run. So far they seem unwilling to shoot their fellow Egyptians, which is bad news for the regime, but we'll see whether that also extends to Islamists attempting an armed coup.
YeloStalyn| 1.31.11 @ 4:17PM
Reading some of the other reports about the event, I cam across an article about Iraeli ideas of how the US is handling the situation. They feel as though Obama shot his ally "in the back". I'm not attempting to make a statement about who the US should back in this event... but simply about how we are percieved in the rest of the world. A quote in one of the articles from Israel is that "America's word is worthless... America has lost it."
Now... consider what that means. There is a whole crap ton of people in this great nation who have not "lost it" and who still feel that our word is our bond. But because we are supposed to be the prime example of democracy to the rest of the world... the actions of our President are, in fact, seen as the actions of us the people. OUR word is now worthless... not just Obama... he has discredited us as people... not just as a nation.
It is precisely this kind of crap... our politicians being... well, politicians... instead of leaders and representing the heart and soul American that has hurt out image in the world. Our leaders were once like us... staunch, hard, and righteous. Not perfect by any means... but stood firm on ideals, not on practices. Now... we're nothing but the laughing stock of the world. Not because of Bush... the world thought we may be dumb... but still tough and deserving respect (even though the man was far from dumb). Now... we're neither smart NOR strong.
Congrat's Obama... you have single handedly done things that the strongest nations in our short history have been unable to do... undermine the United States of America. Not China, not the USSR, not Iran. And yet one single bumbling idiot crap-for-brains was able to do it in only 2 years. Bravo.
jrjr| 1.31.11 @ 4:18PM
Many of you do not give the Messiah sufficient credit for being a dunce on this one. This is one of his favorite shows -- overthrow the gubbermint if you can't run it. His marxist history falls into place with this. Mooslims running the pyramids, controlling the Suez and stiffling the flow of oil. What could be better than this? Ya think that $50 Mooslim tax on a barrel through the Suez would be okay? If only if he would raise his hand and say "Peace Bro Mooslim" and that would help, wouldn't it?
GW| 1.31.11 @ 5:47PM
Frankly, there is no easy answer. Obama is no Churchill, but he doesn't have many options. Unless he sends in the US military and restores power of a corrupt dictator, eventually Mubarak will be gone. So, we now must face the reality of dealing with the newest regime.
Ironically, many rioting on the streets are doing so because they want freedoms. Certainly there politics are much more Islamized than Western democracies, but most Egyptians want a shot of freedom and self-determination (33% unemployment doesn't help either). However, the US government *should* have one and only one goal--the defense of the United States against enemies both domestic and abroad. Therefore, a toppling of the Mubarak government could turn out detrimental to the US if the MB takes over, something looking very likely.
Although Obama is an abysmal leader and clueless, his hands are tied. He doesn't control Egyptian unemployment or political motivations. If anything, his Cairo speech looks even weaker considering the collapse happened during his presidency. But we all knew this. Giving grandiose speeches, humbling American exceptionalism, bowing to dictators and other foreign leaders may feel cool to a post-American progressive post-modern president, but it doesn't further the interests of the US.
So the question remains, what to do? Sending in the US military (which no one is suggesting) wouldn't solve anything, it would only piss the Egyptians off more and delay the inevitable. However, if we sit and do nothing, we have no say in the future of Egypt. Only God knows what would happen if the MB takes over, but the MidEast certainly won't see more peace and stability. Perhaps in the future our Navy ("A global force for good") will have to be put to work. The Suez Canal cannot fall into the hands of radical Islamists, so maybe our multi-billion dollar military investment will defend our Republic's interests and fire a few shots now that we need to control a strategic area of the globe. I'm not expecting anything Obama, but the realization American interests need to be defended first would be a good start.
NavyBrat | 1.31.11 @ 6:52PM
John:
Please spare us your obfuscations about Islam, the Koran & the Hadith. I've read both in college, comparatively with Plato's "Republic." There's a night & day difference. In short, Plato, & the G*d of Jews & Christians, say, "choose." In Islam, the pedophile prophet says "submit." You can take "submit" & stick it up your tuchus.
C.K. Amos| 1.31.11 @ 9:07PM
Bravo Zulu!
ppan| 1.31.11 @ 7:03PM
What was Obama thinking.......no matter what you think of Hosni Mubarak he played a pivotal role for USA interests in the Middle East ...so much for 28 years ....sure throw him under the bus...and inherit, what? , a peaceful Muslim Brotherhood....Obama will be able to talk to them about democracy and brotherhood..ha
Bottoms Up!| 1.31.11 @ 7:03PM
The Middle East has been on a "drunken" bender ever since Islam became dominant and pumped out so many new humans to carry on.
When given lemons, make lemonade!
So, don't worry, be happy, that the other infection, besides Islam, of high technology from non-Islamic peoples is NOW giving the masses in Egypt et al a NEW way to get high.
We all try to make sense of this latest revolution, especially by comparing it to 1979 in Iran. However, time has vastly speeded up, folks!
Do you think the one guy, Mubarak, REALLY matters?
Prediction---the ruling MILITARY will NOT let Egypt go the way of Iran. After many years of stifling the Muslim Brotherhood, how can anyone believe they are just going to let them win?
No, you can bet that self interest of the top leaders of the military will be forced to use their remaining power to at least keep the MB from gaining control.
Without a doubt, they are fully aware of what's happened in their neighborhood, and are determined NOT to suffer the foolish Iranian kind of devolution.
Someone will step up, and JUST SAY NO!
Somhow, humans must sober up the sods in Islam, especially in the Middle East, and Egypt looks like a great place to start.
Maybe THIS TIME they won't miss this opportunity for positive change.
Dan| 1.31.11 @ 7:26PM
We must never forget that what Obama reads off his teleprompter has been written for him by a staffer. What he thinks and does is the important thing and in this case I believe he is thrilled that it is happeneing on his watch. What else would a closet Muslim, who would not support the Iranian's bid for freedom, think. The dominos are falling and soon all mid east countries, except Israel, will be run by radical Islamists. That will make it easy for Obama to turn his back on Israel too. Wait until the jahadists in the UK take to the streets. Coming to a theater near you.
Marc Jeric| 1.31.11 @ 7:34PM
Abu Hussein al-Nairobi, our Community Organizer-in-Chief, opens his mouth and issues a stream of platitudes that have nithing to do with government takeover in Egypt by the jihadi terrorist organization Muslim Brotherhood - the supporter of Hamas and Hezbollah and the originator of Al-Qaida.
A.C.Guard| 1.31.11 @ 7:37PM
It is amazing how many political commentators on TV and in print say once Mubarak is overthrown the Egyptian people will get a taste of democracy and freedom. What are these people smoking? The Muslim Brotherhood is not a freedom loving, democratic group but rather fundamentalist Muslim, American and Israeli hating group. It is Iran all over again. Don't let these media Obama apologist pull the wool over your eyes.
JeffT| 1.31.11 @ 9:31PM
The only ones more clueless than Obama, and it is a close race, is the media.
C.K. Amos| 1.31.11 @ 9:05PM
I wonder if Obama should be given credit for thinking at all, sloppy or not?
IMO, he's a cipher whose job is to put his Marxist, anti-capitalist, anti-freedom, anti-American spin on everything.
That and what appears to be the lack of real or figurative testicularity to actually stand for something and make a decision in some time frame other than glacial and/or when the poll winds have blown long enough.
The man's an embarrassment. That'd be tolerable but he keeps showing that he really is the clearest and most present danger to not just America but the world.
Yosemeti Sam| 1.31.11 @ 11:16PM
Um, do Egypt have secret police?
firebrand| 1.31.11 @ 11:21PM
I am sure we are doing all we can - why, at this very moment Obama is sending a cleanup crew with lots of duct tape to get the severed heads back on those mummies.
What kind of people express their pique with governemt by destroying its antiquities? I guess the same kind who blew up those Gold Buddhist monuments.
Obama must have a big bowl of Quaaludes for breakfast to start his mornings and give him that implacable look.
We skewer Boehner every chance we get about his emotions. Yet, no one asks Barry why he has none.
This man is not wired up like the rest of us. His next book should be, "How I Zombied My Way Through My Term as President"
Alfred| 1.31.11 @ 11:29PM
Patriots of civilization must immedately start a campaign to overcome the anti-Nuclear power superstition. Otherwise the West and civilization are sunk.
Bunny Galladora | 2.1.11 @ 7:04PM
The WCTU was founded by women "on their knees" (praying and singing). Carrie A. Nation did use an ax to smash saloons where alcohol was illegal. It would be like someone smashing up a crack house today. She was very upset as alcohol distroyed her family.
AND the National WCTU did not support her efforts.
WAKE UP| 2.1.11 @ 7:42PM
Here’s a clue: ALL the demonstrators in the streets are male.
And another: Obama couldn’t wait to get to Cairo only months after his inauguration.
We’ve not seen even the beginning of where this is going to go yet.
FREE tea| 2.1.11 @ 10:03PM
--"The U.S. has one more task before its own long engineered
collapse is consumated and the Globalists bring
on the RED Chinese and 'eugenics realism',
and that is to 'bring in' (i.e. standardize, culturally
neutralize etc.) the recalcitrant Middle East."
-Alan Watt
Cutting Through the Matrix
(available online)
----As we discover that Mubarak, though certainly
a set-up and a tyrant, ALSO fiercely rejected
WHO UN (i.e. Rockefeller/Gates et al eugenics syndicate) demands for MASS sterilizations,
forced abortions and forced innoculations
(i.e. stealth sterilization and worse).
And from out of the 'chaos', who emerges to
'guide' the opposition? ---Why Soros/UN men,
that's who...
Obama illuminati slave| 2.5.11 @ 10:51AM
The riots in Egypt organized by Obama, Iran and the Muslim Brotherhood
Mohamed Mustafa ElBaradei the Iranian traitor , the Muslim Brotherhood and Iran want to rule Egypt.
They want Repression of women, prohibition of education, high unemployment, radical Islam as Iran, Somalia and Afghanistan under Taliban rule...
As James Earl Carter supported Iranian Islamic Revolution of 1979, so does today Barack Hussein Obama II... SINCE 1979 USA HELP IRAN TO TAKE CONTROL IN Middle East !
What is the condition in Iran 1979 before the islamic Revolution and today in:
Human rights ?
oppression of women ?
freedom of expression ?
Today if woman Wearing Jeans or Without a head covering in Iran she will be Punished...!
All the Opposition parties in Egypt Agreed to the government's changes and for new elections this year Except the Muslim Brotherhood !
After some months the Islamic extremists will take the POWER and people will be in worst situation then before...
Do the people in Iran, Somalia, Afghanistan want the Extremists to rule ?
Christian Louboutin | 6.23.11 @ 6:19AM
"Good evening," said the president (ritually, if, under the circumstances, inaccurately). "As the situation continues to unfold, our first concern is preventing injury or loss of life." Our first concern?
Reebok | 8.11.11 @ 4:22AM
is good
العاب بنات | 4.11.12 @ 4:16PM
Ken, Lighten up. I'm not knocking Winston. I just happen to think that he may want a nip & want to talk to his ally.
العاب بنات | 4.11.12 @ 4:16PM
Ken, Lighten up. I'm not knocking Winston. I just happen to think that he may want a nip & want to talk to his ally.
العاب بنات | 4.11.12 @ 4:19PM
thanx