I do not necessarily think that the beast is O. It just seems like he is in such a position to be him and has the demeanor and personality. It is hard to picture someone who is more antiChrist like. Here is another verse about the antiChrist that is very interesting. It talks about him leaving his flock which can also be interpreted failing the flock. I assume this means that he will be a Jew if the flock means the Jews. He could also start out as a Christian leader if flock means the Church. Maybe the flock is the USA and he fails us. The LORD knows.
Zec 11:17 Woe to the idol shepherd that leaveth the flock! the sword [shall be] upon his arm, and upon his right eye: his arm shall be clean dried up, and his right eye shall be utterly darkened.