A couple of weeks ago, prompted by the capture of Saddam, we discussed on these pages the gains realized from the investment of blood and treasure for Iraqi liberation. This morning's WSJ lead editorial also makes an assessment of the situation. They appear to agree that the full measure of success does not reside in Iraqi nation-building:
"Much still depends on the kind of Iraqi government that emerges in 2004 and beyond, but the mere possibility that a democratic Arab and Islamic state might exist is already reshaping the region." [emphasis mine]
There are many tangible benefits that have already been realized, in the Journal's view:
"For the vast majority of Iraqis, their lives and prospects are infinitely better. A dictator of 30 years has been toppled, in remarkably rapid fashion, and now captured to stand trial. [...] Schools, commerce, religion--a normal civic life--are reviving in that once vital country."
"What about the Middle East, and beyond? The instability that was also widely feared has not appeared, and if anything the opposite is true. No one has been more impressed by the U.S. invasion than the Saudis, who are finally cooperating seriously against al Qaeda. Colonel Gadhafi got the message that playing with WMD is a bad career choice, while Iran is at least meeting with the U.N. again in order to dodge sanctions, or worse, and to preserve its nuclear program."
"Another global benefit of the war is the end of illusions about the United Nations and a certain kind of "multilateralism." [...] The lesson of Iraq, as before in Kosovo, is that only the U.S. has the political will and military means to defeat global threats."
"The most important Iraq result, however, has been the demonstration of U.S. public support. Even amid the worst of the casualty reports in November, some 60% of Americans said the war was worth fighting. This support is all the more remarkable because it has held despite the loud and relentless opposition of most of the country's liberal elite."
The only thing more remarkable is that DemocRAT candidates think opposing these achievements in any way is a winning strategy.
Posted by JohnGalt at December 31, 2003 04:03 PMThat is an outstanding editorial, and I am glad you linked to it. It is a sober and straightforward look at the tremendous accomplishments we have made.
Kind of a side note, but I traded a couple of emails with a Major in the 101st who was a friend of Paul Gigot. He commented on a entry of mine on July 28 (http://www.berkeleysquarejazz.com/blog/archives/000379.html). I told him that I felt both of them were doing their bit to promote freedom: Mr. Gigot by publishing editorials such as this, and Major Greeley, by coming out or retirement to go to Mosul as a safety officer.
The Major's advice: "All the BEST.. and remember in case of attack remain calm and GET LOW!"
What great Americans! Thanks to all who serve.
Posted by: jk at December 31, 2003 05:07 PM