Posted by
on Wednesday, November 15, 2006 12:58:56 PM
I haven’t given much thought to Lebanon since the beginning of September. It seems the news plate has been overflowing, and keeping score on the domestic scandals and outright abolition of guaranteed rights under the Constitution has been sucking my time up like a raindrop in a thirsty desert. Lebanon comes and goes, sneaking in and out on occasion, but I do try and remain informed on what’s going on over there.
Today the Washington Post had a story that I almost passed over: “U.S. Faults Syria, Iran, Hezbollah on Lebanon.” The article delved into to the political morass of what are the remains of the Lebanese political system. In short, Tony Snow whined in a press conference, “It’s Syria, Iran, and Hezbollah’s fault – they’re causing trouble and trying to topple Prime Minister Siniora’s democratically elected government!” …more
Since I originally published this piece, the political situation has worsened; Hezbollah's strong arming looks more like a spoiled child's temper tantrum, and he's actively encouraged his followers not to be afraid of civil war. Some are actively speculating that in a few short years, Hezbollah could take over the political spectrum.
Either this is a huge disaster for the Bush Administration, or a stroke of genius to load up the government, thereby the President a reason to launch a military strike – or better yet, put Israel up to the task. Empire building is definitely not the United States' strong suit. …more