Qaddafi's Downfall, Obama's Victory

The Atlantic ^ | AUG 22 2011

[nickcarraway]

For Barack Obama, "leading from behind" has never looked so ... decisive. With Libyan rebels celebrating in downtown Tripoli, and Muammar el-Qaddafi apparently in hiding, the president's supporters are claiming vindication for a much-criticized approach to regime change in the Arab world.

Obama's strategy amounted to staying resolutely behind the scenes throughout the five-month NATO air operation. To wit: Don't say the United States is openly engaged in ousting Qaddafi. Don't even concede the United States is going to war. Take cover behind a political imprimatur for action from the Arab League and United Nations, and let Europe lead the strike forces. Then modestly take credit--albeit only with a restrained statement on Monday from Martha's Vineyard, where Obama is vacationing.

MORE FROM NATIONAL JOURNAL: Romney Playing Hands-Off When It Comes to Rick Perry Could We See a 'Libya Stimulus'? Huntsman Slams GOP Presidential Field "I think this is a tremendous achievement," said James Steinberg, Hillary Rodham Clinton's recently departed deputy secretary of State, who is now dean of the Maxwell School at Syracuse University. "The biggest factor to date is the fact that we [Americans] have not been the problem. People aren't saying the Americans are trying to do regime change. Whether in Tunisia or Libya or Egypt, we are seen as supportive of others. It's an obvious contrast with the previous administration.... And the fact that tyrants are not able to rally their people against us shows the nuance and skill of this. It's working."

Obama, with his administration in crisis over a staggering economy and mounting U.S. debt as he winds down two wars in Iraq and Afghanistan,

[Turbo Pig]

How come obama’s foreign policy victories always revolve around someone getting killed? If it were a conservative President, the libs would be apoplectic; foaming at the mouth screaming about what a blood thirsty nazi cowboy of a leader we had.

[luvbach1]

Godaffy was held well in check, even to disavowing terrorism, ever since President Reagan got his attention with a missile fired into his tent. 0bummer will not have the will to teach a similar lesson should Islamic fanatics seize control.