The Arguments: IV We need the allies to fight the ware on terrorism.
This argument says that if we attack Iraq, then we will no longer have cooperation from allies to find and prosecute terrorists. This argument assumes that the nations in the region would no longer cooperate. But lets look at these nations:
Pakistan – They may abstain from a UN resolution, but it is apparent that they are cooperating and will continue to cooperate. GWB just lifted some old sanctions on Pakistan.
Kuwait – Supporting our efforts by allowing US troops to launch from their Soil.
Qatar - Supporting our efforts by allowing US planes to launch from their Soil and is home for theater command.
Jordan – Allowing flyover rights and special forces to move into Iraq from their soil.
Turkey – Even with the failure to get legislative support for launching from Turkey, they are still moving equipment into position. Furthermore, the new prime minister (recently elected comfortably) ran on pro-us platform that included allowing US Troops.
Bahrain, UAE, Oman – Have been largely silent.
What is the evidence that any of these countries will no longer cooperate?
There have been some hints from Yemen that there would be less cooperation, but this is unlikely. The government is actually organizing anti-war protests to deflect criticism. This is perfectly logical for them; it allows them to stay in power without appearing to be completely Pro-US.
The only nation, in the region that is opposing us in any meaningful way is Syria. I do not know what their level of cooperation is today, but I doubt that it is very great.
As to any of these nations, It must also be remembered that we still have leverage with them. They do not want to be seen as supporting terrorism. It is now and will continue to be in their best interest, to cooperate in the war on terrorism.
Now to Europe.
First off, 18 European countries support our stand against Iraq.
Does anybody really think, that France and Germany or Russia, will no longer cooperate in fighting terrorism should be go to war with Saddam?
Think about that. Sure relations will be strained. But ended? I doubt it. This says that if France or Germany has intelligence on a terrorist location or regarding plans of a terrorist attack, that they would not warn the US. Does anybody think that would happen? If so what evidence is there to support such a conclusion?
Yes, everybody’s help is needed in the fight against terrorism. But duality is the norm in international relationships - We oppose you on this matter, but support you on the other matter. There is no reasonable basis for believing that cooperation in the war against terrorism is going to be meaningfully impacted. If it is in a nations best interest to cooperate, they will continue to do so. A fight in Iraq is not going to change that. |
