Tuesday, February 15, 2005
Budget Cutbacks: Threat Reduction
If some of the Bush Administration's recent remarks about Iran almost seem familiar, perhaps even "recycled" from the build-up to the Iraq War, there may be a reason. Recent budget cutbacks have apparently led to an alarming reduction in threats! For example, following the death of billionaire politician and former Lebanese prime minister Hariri in Beirut, the White House meekly mewed:
Even Condoleezza Rice seemed declawed:
Today, the Bush Administration recalled the U.S. Ambassador to Syria for "urgent consultations." Yes, indeedy, that should convince Syria to mend its ways.
But wait, does this really mean the budget cutbacks will force the U.S. to start being peaceful and cooperative? Remember the American interest in the six-party-Kumbaya talks with North Korea? It seems the Bush Administration takes an interest in diplo-pussy-footing with some countries when it is preparing to attack, or still bogged down in, other countries.
Not threatening Syria is our budget-friendly way of threatening Iran!
...that's why we've called for measures to hold those responsible, who committed these acts. And those are matters we'll discuss with others and discuss at the United Nations Security Council ....Oh, sure, McClellan also referred to "foreign domination" and "foreign occupation" so that it was clear he was talking about Syria. (Why? What did those words make you think of?) And, yes, he repeatedly paired "other nations" with any reference to the Security Council so that it was clear the U.S. remained willing to kick sand in the U.N.'s face and go it alone (i.e., "coalition" of the willing). But why not even mention Syria directly? A billionaire's been killed, man!
Even Condoleezza Rice seemed declawed:
All of those responsible for this terrible crime must be brought to justice immediately. The United States, together with the international community, will follow closely to ensure that this happens. ...So she actually mentioned Syria, and she said "immediately," but what is this "together with the international community" and "follow closely" business? Where is "Axis of Evil"? Where is "Outposts of Tyranny"?
The United States takes this opportunity to once again call for the immediate implementation of Resolution 1559, including the withdrawal of all Syrian forces, ....
Today, the Bush Administration recalled the U.S. Ambassador to Syria for "urgent consultations." Yes, indeedy, that should convince Syria to mend its ways.
But wait, does this really mean the budget cutbacks will force the U.S. to start being peaceful and cooperative? Remember the American interest in the six-party-Kumbaya talks with North Korea? It seems the Bush Administration takes an interest in diplo-pussy-footing with some countries when it is preparing to attack, or still bogged down in, other countries.
Not threatening Syria is our budget-friendly way of threatening Iran!
