I was watching the debate and Tim Russert posited a question about if Israel launched a strike against Iran because they said that Iran was developing nuclear weapons would you support Israel's actions. I was amazed at all of the candidates floundering to answer the question (in the face of Giuliani's instant, no-questions-asked, support.) This after the unquestioning support by nearly everyone of an unprovoked attack on Syria for which there are many rumors but very little factual evidence. Then I started thinking about what our Middle East policy really is (as opposed to what we say it is)
American Middle East Policy
Winning their hearts and minds through soft power
Statement of principles
We hold these truths to be self evident:
- I get to tell you what to do because I’m bigger than you are.
- If you hit my friends I’m going to hit you harder. Then I’m going to hold you and let my friends hit you.
- And if somebody hits me when I’m not looking, I’m going to hit you.
- If you’re good, I won’t have to hit you.
- You just do what I want, when I want, for as long as I want, then we’ll be friends.
- And another thing, if you want to do anything you have to get my permission first.
- If I’m not there then my friends will tell you if it’s okay.
- If you have something I want you have to give it to me.
- If you don’t like this – tough. Do something about it.