Originally, I conceived this post as a critique of Trump's withdrawal from Syria, which is itself part of an overall U.S. 'pivot' away from the Middle East that has gathered momentum over the past decade or more. But yesterday's announcement of the murder of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi offered an even more direct and specific way into the subject. The success of … [Read more...]
Israeli Election, a “Boisterous Democracy,” and Other Liberal Zionist Nostrums
Though the results of the Israeli election are known, the composition of the next government is not. Both Netanyahu's Likud and the center-right Blue and White coalition lost seats compared to the recent April election. But the latter came out two seats ahead in last week's election. Neither party has enough votes to create a coalition that is far-right … [Read more...]
Pompeo Declares Attack on Saudi Arabia, Iranian “Act of War”
When a country's top diplomat starts using terms like "act of war" to portray an act by an enemy state, then the world should get ready for actual war. I don't know whether Mike Pompeo realizes that he just threw down the gauntlet and made a real war that much more likely. My guess is that he, like his boss, is offering empty threats he has neither the … [Read more...]
Trump “Locked and Loaded” for Iran Attack on Saudi Arabia’s Behalf
Saudi Arabia oil supply was attacked. There is reason to believe that we know the culprit, are locked and loaded depending on verification, but are waiting to hear from the Kingdom as to who they believe was the cause of this attack, and under what terms we would proceed! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 15, 2019 As part of Bibi Netanyahu's … [Read more...]
