[Texasforever]

Circles within circles. This was a great piece but reminds me of the "puzzle rings" I brought back from Saudi Arabia in the 80's. There is no "understanding" the Middle Eastern mind. The only thing that is sure is that what you see is a distraction and the "message” is never what you think it is.

[ccmay]

On September 11, 2001, there was an unmistakable sense of glee and little sorrow among upper-class Egyptians for the distant power -- only satisfaction that America had gotten its comeuppance. After nearly three decades of American solicitude of Egypt, after the steady traffic between the two lands, there were no genuine friends for America to be found in a curiously hostile, disgruntled land.

Thus illustrating the wisdom of Tacitus, who held that charity should only be given when there is a reasonable chance of repayment. Alms given to one who has no hope of reciprocating breed in him hatred rather than gratefulness.

Cut these bastards off and let them starve.

-ccm

[wastoute]

Lomg read and worth it. The last paragraph certainly reminds me of parts of Revelations...

[anapikoros]

bttt

This post didn't get much of a response 2 weeks ago. This author seems to have a good handle on this and judging by his name he has the right ethnic/cultural background to lend his argument credibility.

Its a long read but worth it to gain a perspective on this issue. Thanks for posting and introducing me to Fouad Ajami