Zagadka:
That is where I propose institution something more along the lines of a “temporary” constitutional monarchy. I mean, a real old school one, not like England’s. And even if it is a theocracy. Find the most capable leader, give him a decent constitution to work under, some basic checks and balances, and let them develop the rest. Foistering democracy straight onto them isn’t going to work, or if it does, will only work after a lot of force. Square peg, round hole.
That’s what the British *did * there after WW1, right after sketching some lines onto a map and calling it the New Middle East, starring Iraq, guest-starring Transjordan and Palestine. They found this Idris (or was it Farouk? whatever) character somewhere, called him the King of Iraq, and not long later the place was run by the Ba’ath fascists.
They’ll eventually get what they want, whether because of or in spite of us, even if what they want is fascism or a theocracy or partition.
ralph124c:
I think there is a modern precedent for what we facein Iraq…consider the case of General (later Marshal) Hubert Lyauty , the French general who “pacified” Algeria in the 1920’s. What the general did: he announced to all of the local leaders that french rule was to be unchallenged, and disloyalty wouldbe deverely punished. Small local rebellions soon started up, and the army’s response was ruthless…rebellious villages were burnt to the ground, and rebels were captured and hung The bodies were left hanging, both to mock islamic practice and to terrify other potential rebels. In the cities, rebels were rounded upin mass arrestes, and the ringleaders executed (or sent to “Devils Island”-in French Guinea). Attacks upon French soldiers were responded to savagely…and entire village was torched in response to the killing o fone soldier. In contrast . those who accepted French rule were given government jobs and good salaries.
And this is why the French still have Algieira today.
What?
Yes God bless and God speed to you monk and to every other honorable person who ventures overther to do good.