Are you happy Bush has finally stopped being stubborn and is negotiating with Iran and Syria?

Question

According to the Iraq Study Group, this is LONG overdue!

Actually, I think that was Ronald "If you let them go, I'll illegally sell you missiles 6 years later" Reagan.

Answer 1

Is that what the Iraq Surrender Group suggested? I heard they want us out at ANY cost.

Answer 2

Timing is everything, and the time for a regional conference is now… supported by the Iraq government and with a new constitution in place (approved by a majority of the out-of-power Sunnis). As a result, we can have a conference called by the Iraq government and to be held in a more secure Baghdad. (See first link).

You can call it “negotiation” if you will. But from the American POV, I believe it’s more of a maneuver to bring Iran to the table, putting further heat on them to stop interfering in Iraq and to curtail their nuclear ambitions.

More and more, the conflict reveals itself as a regional ethnic conflict between Shiites who dominate in Iran and are the majority in Iraq (and the new Iraqi government) vs. Sunnis who are the minority in Iraq but dominate in most other influential Arab countries, including neighbors Syria, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan.

The “civil war” has roots well beyond Iraq’s borders, with attacks being carried out by anti-Sunni Shia militias supported by Iran and counter-attacks by Sunni militias hoping to eventually return to power in Iraq. Sunni Arab countries (especially Syria) are decidedly lukewarm toward the new Iraq government and are likely supporting the Sunni militias.

Worldwide, Sunnis comprise 85% of the Muslim population compared to 15% Shia. (See second link). The Shia majority in Iran is therefore part of a substantial minority in the Arab world as a whole. “Cleansing” Iraq of their minority Sunni population and extending their influence there is a major strategic goal for Iran.

But ensuring Iran’s long-term survival in the Middle East by developing their nuclear capability is even more important to the ambitious Mr. Ahmoud Ahmadinejad.

Shiites will never be the natural Arab majority. They must either find a way to live peacefully with their Sunni Arab neighbors or go to war with them. Ahmadinejad seems to like plan B. The most terrifying thing is that the elimination of Israel and U.S. influence in the region is plan C.

His nuclear ambitions would ensure that, in his demented mind.

I know this is a lot to read, but it sure beats sound bites and political talking points, don’t you think?

Answer 3

i assume you imagine we ought to continually in simple terms look any incorrect way at the same time as Iran and Syria shelter and help the terrorists. we are combating those who're severe and advise employer. we ought to act an similar. i do not pick to attack Iran or Syria yet I fairly pick to avert terrorists and guns crossing the border and perilous our troops.

Answer 4

Yes this is wonderful. I remember how much success Jimmah Carter had negotiating with them. Oh wait, they let the hostages go when Ronald "if you elect me, I'm going in to get them" Reagan was inaugurated didn't they.

Answer 5

I disagree about it being "long overdue." I think the timing is now appropriate for negotiations, since Ahmadinejad is in disfavor. That was hardly the case before.

Answer 6

Just as happy as when Neville Chamberlain stopped being stubborn and negotiated with Hitler.

Answer 7

I thought it was Iraq not America.

Answer 8

Yea,that's a real nice. Maybe you can answer question I got. You think they make pizza in Iran? Nah? I didn't think a so myself.

Answer 9

No, You have upped their status & gained - nothing. Do they want the same outcome as the US - No.

Answer 10

I'm ecstatic. It means the cons won't use the "appeasement" line again in the next couple of minutes.