Just to correct myself :
More like very prideful of their country, their culture, their “persianess”, rather than “ardently nationalists” which sounds like nazi-like nationalism…
Yes.
“Respect”? Not a hope in hell.
The editor of the London-based Al-Aqsa Arabic-language newspaper was interviewed on the BBC yesterday. He expressed the ‘street’ view that hatred of the US is at an all-time high, and an attack on Iraq would provide a focal point for that hatred; and that the distraction caused by the Iraq campaign would provide cover for Al Qaeda to attack again.
Such an attack could possibly destroy the growing but fragile moderate movement next door in Iran. It could spiral to include Israel, Lebanon, and Syria.
As for terrorists, they wouldn’t fear national wars - rather, these wars galvanise support.
Apologies, the Arabic newspaper is Al Quds.
I disagree. Although given current ham-fisted maneuvres, it is of course infinately more difficult.
The link you provided to al-Qods I believe is incorrect. It is rather more likely that the interview was with the editor of the fairly respected al-Quds al-Arabi which is based in London rather than the lurid Palestinian rag cited.
See http://www.alquds.co.uk/ for the site.
Not, to be frank, my favorite paper but decent enough.
I do believe that “hatred” is an overstatement based on my observation but seething resentment, oh yes. I will agree with that.
It will without any doubt in my mind derail and retard the moderate movement in Iran for a period of at least several years - 1-3 depending on events. Spark a nationalist backlash.
Lebanon: no I think Lebanon’s government is not sufficiently implicated in US ties to really cause a particular reaction ex-I-P conflict spiraling out of control.
Dangers are the Gulf and Egypt. Especially Egypt. And Jordan come to think of it.
None of these goverments will fall, but this senseless obsession with Iraq will tend to derail the rather more important hunt for al-Qaeda.
Congratulations on your abilities in Arabic, Collounsbury.
Perhaps the next language to tackle would be the one of civilized discourse. You may find it equally useful.
Regards,
Shodan
Checking Forum, yep, Great Debates. Hmm, have the rules changed, and ad hominem attacks are now allowed? How about blantantly racist comments like “sand niggers”?
The Teeming Millions would like to know.
I am sure that as much ‘backlash’ will be generated by a US-led invasion of Iraq as was generated by US military activity in Afghanistan during ramadan: none.
Especially not among the then-free Iraqi people.
Bush said … '“You are either with us or against us.”.
The idea is for these Arab States to take care of terrorist organizations in their countries themselves or be blown off the map.
It’s real simple.