by Jack » Thu 27 Jul 2006, 08:33:12
$this->bbcode_second_pass_quote('Miki', '
')How about these FACTS for context?
Just to give you an idea,
1-Over 30% of the Lebanese population has been converted into refugees in only two weeks.
That's an interesting report. Thank you.
Keep in mind, though, that when Lebanon - or, if you prefer, some elements of the Lebanese population - permitted Hezbollah to continue operating on their soil, they made an implicit decision to gamble their economic stability. Arguably, they put at risk their survival as a sovereign nation.
No doubt the aid received from Hezbollah seemed worthwhile at the time. But by accepting the aid and permitting operations to originate from their territory, they took a risk. In the end, the costs you list were predictable.
It does no good to state that Lebanon was unable to force Hezbollah out. In the end, the civilian population will be in the middle of a war.
No doubt someone will bring up 9/11. That too was predictable.
I'll make a further prediction - the events in Iraq, Lebanon, and other locales will result in other, more damaging attacks on U.S. soil. Our policies of open borders and free trade, combined with an unpopular foreign policy, make it a certainty. Let me make it clear that I do not want this to happen. But my desires carry no weight in such matters.
A further prediction - as population pressures, famine, and peak oil develop, the Middle East is going to become even bloodier and more dangerous. You really might wish to consider departing Lebanon. I do not think its fate will be pleasant.