Wait, I thought the company line was that Obama was to be criticized because he wasn't acting in Libya. Now he is being criticized FOR acting in Libya?
Obviously there has been a change to the game plan. Can someone please email me the new memo on this?
I've been consistent in my comments. I question the administration's handling of this from an overall strategic perspective. We went from being the last to condemn Col. Q to being the first to lob missiles at him.
I question whether the admin has a plan WRT the ME and they've done nothing to suggest they do.
volinbham, I personally feel this is a humanitarian action to prevent the deaths of civilians. However, Libya and it's current leader have been longtime enemies of the US and it's allies, and have been linked to various terrorism organizations and plots. One can't criticize this engagement without also criticizing the Iraqi expedition in 2003.
We kept the rebels from being squashed. Like we should have done for the Kurds back in the 90's. That was and is the stated objective.
I am getting a vibe of extreme hypocrisy, but maybe I'm jumping the gun and being too sensitive.
These questions were asked about Iraq and rightfully so. Are these not legit questions?
Further, answers were at least attempted for Iraq. The threat/interests were repeatedly articulated - ad naseum both in public speeches, press conferences and in front of the UN Sec Council. Whether or not you buy the answers doesn't mean they were not offered.
Congress authorized the use of force with a very, very strong majority (maybe 80%?).
Objectives were stated (removal of SH, establishment of democratically elected government). Again, you may disagree with the objectives but they were stated.
The exit plan was never created/articulated.
I see no hypocrisy in asking the same questions that were asked for Iraq or any use of military force. If you asked them for Iraq why wouldn't you ask them for Libya?
Answers to these questions would give me more confidence that this administration has some plan other than simply reacting to CYA. At this point, I don't see much indication.