Posted on 02/16/2005 7:27:33 AM PST by 68skylark
Bush has always moved slowly--into Afghanistan and into Iraq.
So if he plans to go into Lebanon, he might easily start working in that direction now but not go in until next fall.
Yes, if I understand some of the recent reports correctly, the dominant Shiite ticket (with 48% of the vote) includes a fair number of friendly Sunnis and others who are not Shiites but were approved by the Shiite leader. So some of the Sunnis in the government may be foot-dragging enemies from the Saddam-loving regions, but many other Sunnis will be friendly to the Shiites, part of their ticket, and willing to work closely with them.
It was done once in Lebanon, before the troubles. They had an elaborate system of checks and balances worked out among the three major groups, and it was highly successful. The country was free and prosperous. I'm sure many Lebanese, including Muslims, long for the return of those days.
My wife lived for a time in Beirut as a kid, back when it was a wonderful place. Still has great memories.
There is another way. We dont need any military intervention to win.
We can bring down the Syrian Government by liberating Lebanon, in the same way that tearing the Berlin wall down ended the Soviet era in Russia.
Michael Young of the New Star of Lebanon was interviewed by NPR today, and noted that there is a very new dynamic in Lebanon: Former enemies are now united in opposing the Syrian occupation. Further, he stated that the Syrian Governing elites gained a lot (including financial gain) from Syria's inlfluence in Lebanon, and were the impediment to any withdrawal. Syria further gains regional relevence and influence in palestinian politics through the occupation (controlling hezbollah, etc.)
As noted by a freeper on this thread, liberating Lebanon is the 'domino effect' in a positive direction. It will likely shatter the Syrian government. All the more reason to push in the rotting door.
bump and thanks!
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