Probably Right

Submitted by RonThompson (United States), Feb 2, 2010 at 10:57

It is heartening to learn of polls showing American public opinion to be quite strongly willing to approve an American strike against Iran's nuclear facilities. Of course, the biggest roadblock to such a strike may be that the last time the US launched a preemptive strike, it was against Iraq, a colossal blunder which is the biggest reason it is now necessary to contemplate military action against Iran..

Although it is extremely unlikely Obama will do this, there are a few encouraging signs. The strongest are the predator drone attacks, which have been increasingly relentless and successful. They can be compared with the Stinger missiles that the Reagan administration sent in large numbers to the anti-Soviet fighters in Afghanistan in the mid to late 1980's.

It is arguable Obama's action is even bolder. If he prods and supports the military in going after each new fanatic/lunatic leader that emerges, he will go far to undo Bush's second (of three) colossal mistakes, i.e. when he failed to hone in without pause on getting bin Laden in Dec, 2001. Indeed, besides Cohen's column today in the Post, there is the page 1 story, Pakistani Taliban in Dire Position, which if it isn't premature is the most hopeful story in months from that country.

Of course Bush's third, or rather first great blunder was in failing to prevent Sept 11th in the first place. (I agree with those who feel Bush's attitude was incredibly irresponsible in the months preceding 9/11) Strongly considering Pipe's recommendation may be the best way for Obama to avoid repeating any of the three great blunders of the Bush years.

Ron Thompson

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