Sir, - Obama declares, 'Now is the time to show the world that America keeps its commitments.' It is really very difficult for an intelligent reader to take this declaration with any degree of seriousness. As a matter of fact, despite the learned commentaries and analyses that fill the media and sometimes struggle to inject some credibility into the American president's statement, sadly to say it nevertheless remains totally unconvincing!
Why? It is almost impossible to reconcile a 'serious commitment' with waiting for the leisurely return of Congress, its deliberations, and the real possibility (as in the British parliament) of its refusal. The time frame offered by Obama for the gaining of congressional approval may very well encompass the murder of thousands of additional Syrians.
If and when the Commander in Chief of U.S. forces does take action, whom and what will be the targets? Surely any meaningful arms, personnel, or supply depots would have been emptied or moved thanks to the early warnings and kindly explanations about the acutely limited interest of the U.S. in causing a regime change or of destroying chemical storehouses.
Anyone who desires that his threats and actions have some measure of meaning must learn the basic lesson of effective combat: Shoot and Don't Talk!!!
ZEV CHAMUDOT
Petach Tikvah
[Video credit: The White House]
