The Liberal blogosphere has turned green. TPM and Rachel Maddow have become cheerleaders for what they think is the democratic movement of Iran. Obama and Kos have decided to stay out of the fray, while not criticizing others for commenting on the situation. On the Right Wing, there is talk that this cautious approach is somehow a betrayal of our allies in Iran.
As someone who grew up in another country (India) awash in conspiracy theories of American involvement in local politics, I believe that the best thing for Americans can do right now to support democracy in Iran is..nothing. Stay out of it. Obama, having lived abroad, understands this. As does Kos for the same reason. Any whiff of American support for Moussavi will undermine him. The crowds in Teheran, chanting "Allahu Akbar", will themselves turn against Mousavi if the US voices support for him.
As I write this the Supreme Leader is giving a sermon in Teheran, darkly warning against "arrogant Western powers" and asking for "prayer" and "divine guidance". Even if the US Government stays out of it, if American media is involved, such as through blogs, it will be used against Mousavi and his party. In other words,
Don't just do something. Stand there.
Read More