I wish I had time to respond at length. Unfortunately, I don't. So I'll simply say your analysis is biased toward a pessimistic outlook.
When peace takes hold in Iraq and the nation is stabilized under some form of democracy, you neglected to mention the benefits of lower energy prices. This could be a significant cost savings to America and the world, which would strongly negate the cost of war.
Additionally, we didn't fight this war to flex our muscles indiscriminately as you suggest. We took on this challenge in order to protect America from wmd and free the Iraqi people.
While it's true there are other dictators as evil as Hussein's regime, the difference is there is only one dictator who combines the elements of 1) willingness to use wmd on his own people and neighbors, 2) willingness to invade other countries in the region, 3) supports, harbors (and trains), terrorists linked to Al Queda, and 4) who sits on a vast resource of wealth to bring all his diabolical dreams to fruition.
The combination of these elements is what makes Saddam a unique threat. And it's something, which has been missing in much of your analysis of the Iraqi conflict to date.
The world will soon be rid of this madman and the evil party he ruled with an iron fist. The world will soon see for their own eyes how this one Stalinist entity has subjugated, tortured, and enslaved millions of decent people who deserve a chance to see their children grow up in a terror free environment.
The light of liberty is approaching this embattled land. The sun is beginning to rise over more than 20 million people for the first time in decades. And all you seem to see are problems, mistakes and negative consequences.
Freedom is never risk-less.
My goodness Steven, a great historical event is happening before our eyes! See the future with hope and opportunity, instead of pessimism.
The American military is skillfully taking out Saddam's forces piece by piece in the most humane way possible. They are giving the world a clinic in how to compassionately manage war, against an evil dictator who held millions hostage for decades. And what's truly remarkable is it's all being done with volunteers! Fireman, policemen, doctors, truck drivers and aspiring citizens of America are re-establishing the meaning of the phrase "freedom is not free".
I can't express the pride I feel toward the men and women in our armed forces who are serving so bravely, so professionally, and so compassionately. They are showing the very best of what America is all about as they risk their lives for our safety.
Lastly, the notion that it's an open book whether we will be safer as a nation with Hussein’s regime decapitated is ridiculous. Of course the world will be safer. Just as it was safer when we killed Hitler and removed the third Reich from power. We will be safer, and the Iraqi people will build a country they can be proud of.
That's the most likely outcome of this war, despite the nay-sayers best analytical attempt.
Michael |
