Actually, if it weren't for the presence of oil, it would make very little difference who dominated the region. Without oil, the Middle East would have an economy similar to that of most of Africa.
They are the original parasitic region of the world. We hand immense sums of money over to them, much of which they use to plot against us.
WE found the oil. WE developed the resource. WE get it to its markets. WE allow them to control it, in allegiance to our own principles, not theirs.
Does anyone seriously think a militarily irresistible Muslim or Arab country would pay infidels gigantic sums for access to a resource necessary to its own economy?
As Clive famously said, I am astonished by our moderation. Yet we get no credit for it whatsoever.
Paddy Ping!
I agree with you 100%. Without the West, the Arabs would be using oil to give shape their hair.
Absolutely correct on both counts. And what better reason is there for intervention than the world's and our economic well being? Just what is so bloody awful with the US looking out for the US? When did self interest become such a dirty thing?
My family, my country, come first. Get over it Pat.