Apart from the muslim world the US has troops in many countries, I think I read over 100 countries. Regardless of whether we should have troops in the mid east, it seems to me that is time to rethink whether we need all of these troops around the world.
Ok.. The US doesn't have troops anywhere that the host country doesn't want them to be (minus Afghanistan).
There is a SOFA that is negotiated between the host country and our government that details that status of US forces in a particular country. It's mutually agreed upon:
en.wikipedia.org
Now would we have a SOFA agreement if those countries where US troops are located didn't want us there? They are the sovereign government, representing either the elected will of their people, or the most powerful political entity which has achieved power.
Furthermore, US troops overseas are often involved in humanitarian aid missions. We built a good number of roads and schools in Central America and I can tell you personally that our presence there was WELCOMED. It was seen as a sign that the US cares more than their own government.
Look at what our US ships did when the Tsunami hit Acheh, Indonesia.
defense.gov
Type "Humanitarian" in here for a list of articles:
search.dma.mil
We have PRT teams throughout Iraq and Afghanistan. These are the Civil Affairs specialists that assist the people in those countries with education, training, and logistical support to improve their own lives.
The bottom line is that we have to base our troops somewhere.
Most of these bases are Naval and Air logistics. So if we get rid of them, then we're either dependent upon obtaining visitation and refueling rights in a non-secure port. They assist in "showing the flag", and they provide the militaries of the respective nations to cooperate and build trust. That's what Allies do.
Of course, Mish may not believe we need Allies in this world and that we can "go it alone". He'd likely tell other countries to "F" Off and that would certainly build trust and friendship.
The reality is that we don't put some "skin in the game", we can't have any influence in creating positive changes.
It seems to me that many muslims come to the west and instead of melting in, want western society to change for them. Why is this? Is it not possible that this kind of mentality plays a part in the whole picture.
They are a distinct culture and it's hard for many of them to acclimate to American values and lifestyles. Their children adjust very well, but the adults feel they are losing control. And hell.. a lot of US-born parents feel the same way.. ;0)
I just want Muslims to understand the essential nature of separation between Church and State. Just as MOST Americans would not tolerate some preacher clamoring for the violent imposition of a theocratic government in the US, we shouldn't tolerate Muslim clerics making such rantings in a Mosque.
Hawk |
