A Mediterranean Battlefield - Syria

[Peter Lemkin]

I take a mid-way position, as I perceive the two camps discussing here. I think most, if not all of the Arab Revolutions started organically, from real discontents of real people - not affiliated with anyone and not provocateurs. I can't believe the vegetable seller in Tunisia was a plant. Of course there soon are those who try to hijack the growing discontent and movements - as with the attempts to hijack Occupy and any other progressive movement you care to name in the 'West'. The Assad Regime is corrupt and authoritarian to the core...and so are those trying to supply mercenaries and hijack any real attempts at a People's revolution. The only 'good people' ARE the average persons in these countries - some of which, apparently, have also taken up light arms or are doing intelligence and sabotage, as well as demonstrations. Yes, others try on both sides to induce them to be co-opted. It is a real mess and very sad with all the deaths and destruction. I think it is very hard to tell where the balance of power currently lies - due to the heavy propaganda, lies and false images by all sides. I'm not optimistic things will turn out well in Syria - with the 'West' eying Iran next. I think there a many disparate groups fighting and disparate interests - some in concert - some not. Clearly, the two larger sides have the ability to project their propaganda, while most of the others do not. The same happened in Bahrain, Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Tunisia and elsewhere - each a bit different and each having parallels. The Middle East countries most in need of a revolution are, IMHO, Saudi Arabia and Israel...and the least likely to see ones anytime soon. The Western country most in need of a revolution is my own, and also the least likely to see one anytime soon...... Sadly, there are now both organic and non-organically created 'freedom fighters' in the area - who use very vicious means [suicide bombings, IUDs, bombings, kidnappings, murders, et al. for one side or the other.] A total mess and I see no power with enough morality or legitimacy to help make things better at the moment. That will have to come from the People, world wide and in the area.