The American government is trying hard to run against the rising tide of disaffection among its people and critics. They are trying their best to not 'cut and run' from Iraq. This is the right thing to do. Never mind the reasoning that got them there. What's done is done.
America and its people must find the resolve within to not abandon Iraq. If they do the ramifications can prove more costly than actually occupying Iraq until it is ready to stand on its own.
It is here the analogy to Vietnam is appropriate. It was the aftermath of an American withdrawal that was perceived as a dishonorable one by its enemies. This image and belief - albeit misguided - has perpetuated the persistent myth of America as paper tiger. The Arab world is no different as their own perception of what power differs from the one that marks the West. While to our sensibilities 'cutting one's losses' is considered not only to be smart but a moral one, it's not the case among Arabs. With this in mind, America must consider that part of the equation as well.
There is such a thing as leaving a foreign land properly. That some people have suggested America to leave by setting a deadline is a recipe for failure.
History lesson not learned. We'll see.
The author says, Never mind the reasoning that got us into Iraq; what's done is done. That's a curious comment by itself.
ReplyDeleteBut does this mean that we are required to perpetuate the wrong? Must we continue to spend ourselves into bankruptcy? To pile up more American dead? To impose our will on other people?
Will the author elaborate on his statement that, "This is the right thing to do"?
It's a good question and one I do ask myself all the time.
ReplyDeleteWhat I'm saying is stay until the prescribed date. For example, Canada made a commitment to stay in Afghanistan until 2011. It will mean more grief and pain but this is what the Liberals chose to do and the Conservatives are choosing to honor.
The whole prospect of success is hinged on international support (or interference depending one's viewpoints). "Cutting and running" may lead to a worse scenario.
That's what I mean by it's the right thing to do. You can view it as a lesser of two evils if you choose.
It may all be in vain, but Afghan's (and Iraqi's) are looking for our help and it hasn't been a complete disaster.
As for Iraq, I agree. It mustn't be open ended. But my point was that it was done. Now it's time to debate from this point forward and not about why it was done. There will be a time for this.
Hope I clarified it a little.
Mustn't. Excuse the error.
ReplyDelete