The rioting going on in France is worrisome. I think it's the tip of the iceberg. How long before AQ and other radical Islamic groups move in to take advantage of the situation?
That's assuming they did not have a role in starting the situation. I believe they're already there, waiting for the first lockdown of the neighborhoods so they can claim that Islam is being targeted and call for wider action.
You're right, this is just the beginning, but I don't believe that it was random or devoid of AQ influence.
Precisely. The trouble there is the extremely close proximity and (now) lack of border controls between nations thanks to the EU. This could spread like wildfire. Another reason I think that they are at a greater risk for the Avian (Bird) Flu.
I understand your concern.
In my opinion, France is operating from
a position of weakness vs. strength.
France needs to grow huevos and deal
firmly with the situation NOW. The best
plan would have been dealing firmly with
the situation right from the start.
They have to be licking their chops. I'm guessing they're going to sit on the sidelines and see how far the Arab "street" can get before the French actually crack down.
I think this episode just goes to show how much fear the French have of a full Arab revolt. That's most disturbing.