The Gordian Knot
By Dave Lannen
10 March, 2011
Countercurrents.org
If the situation in Afghanistan and Iraq were not tragic enough, now there are voices calling for the U.S. to intervene in Libya. Before we embark on another noble crusade further into the Arab world, it is helpful to consider what our actions since October 2001 have brought.
It is conservatively estimated that since the U.S. invasions into Afghanistan and Iraq 919,967 have been killed and 1,739,547 wounded. These figures include warring parties and civilians.
It is time to look to the Arab community to provide stability as Libyans grapple for a freer society. Rather than deploy U.S. troops and aircraft to untie yet another Gordian Knot, it’s long overdue that Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, U.A.E., etc…. step up. They are well armed Muslim neighbors that have a deep interest in regional peace.
Shakespeare did not envision a tragedy on this scale, but his characters echo even today. Let us imagine that playing Brutus is the U.S.; playing a slain Caesar is Iraq; playing Antony is the missing voice of reason. Follow with me:
Brutus.
Because Caesar was my dear friend, I weep for him; …because he was valiant, I honor him; but--because he was ambitious, I killed him… for the good of Rome. There are tears for his friendship; joy for his fortune; honor for his valor; and death for his ambition.
Roman Citizen.
I am afraid someone worse will come in his place.
Antony.
O, now you weep, and I can tell that you feel the beginnings of pity.
Now let it work. Mischief, you are loose, take whatever path you want.
As we approach the Ides of March it is notable how little has changed since 44 B.C.
Dave Lannen is a veteran of Afghanistan and Iraq and a member of Veterans For Peace in Traverse City, Michigan.
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