We've been watching the news on TV about the Iranian revolt against the recent election. I'm so frightened for the Iranian people. I think they're incredibly brave to go against the Ayatollah, the establishment and President Ahmadinejad when they could be hurt and killed at anytime.
Some critics are complaining that President Obama has not come out strongly enough against the Iranian government about the crackdown of the revolt. They forget that our president has to be very careful here. He really can't threaten a whole lot because I can't see us going in as election judges with our armed forces. We don't have enough resources for that right now. We're strained as it is in Afghanistan and Iraq.
There are many middle east leaders who hate America and are looking to blame us for what is happening. If President Obama were to come out too strongly, the U.S. would be accused of meddling into their affairs. They could try to deflect their hatred onto us instead of dealing with the crisis in their own country which is due to their own making.
I think President Obama's careful and measured approach to this is smart. He's letting the world know that the U.S. is against the government's brutality but he's not threatening anything. I just hope Iran's leaders will redo the election and not turn into a dictatorship because that's what it's looking like now.
We really must be grateful that we were able to have a change of government without violence and bloodshed. It's not perfect but at least we're working toward it.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
14 comments:
I LOVE hearing from you!
However, if you sign in as ANONYMOUS, please don't forget to tell me who you are in the comment box by just writing your first name. We would all appreciate it if you kept your comment respectful and kind.
I apologize for having to use Word Verification occasionally, but the SPAM is making me crazy.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I haven't gone back to watch TV news yet; it is troubling many nights and the world is so full of sorrow and dangers. I have Iranian friends and it breaks my heart to know how they must worry for their friends and family back home. I just keep praying, keep hoping for the best. You're right, it does make me grateful for the government I do have--that when it fails me, at least I have a voice and a vote that counts, and still have a safe place to live. Great post Kay.
ReplyDeleteExcellent post, Kay. I cannot even begin to imagine what it must be like to live with such danger every day and such constraints on every word and every move. We are fortunate indeed.
ReplyDeleteI think you're so right with what you say about President Obama Kay. It sometimes seems to us here in the UK that the USA is perhaps a little quick to jump in to sort out other countries, and it is refreshing to see a president who realises that people need to sort their own problems out in their own way, whether we like the eventual outcome or not.
ReplyDeleteit is a scary world for those who pursue freedom...we can only pray for the Iranian people...
ReplyDeleteExcellent post, Kay, and well said.
ReplyDeleteWell said, Kay. And in fact, the Supreme Leader has already blamed the British and Americans for fomenting the demonstrations.We are a handy evil for them. President Obama speaking out too forcefully would only make it worse.
ReplyDeleteIt is an intense time in Iran. How long will the cry for more freedom be sustained? Will it bring about change, or be crushed?
Well said Kay, well said.
ReplyDeleteWe here are told that the protesters do not want to appear to have American backing or support. That would be bad for them.
ReplyDeleteHaving two dear Iranian blog-friends, I follow this on a personal level, worrying a lot about these two students.
The one is in Portland now and he relays the dramatic news from his home country. See http://portlanddailyphotos.blogspot.com/
So glad to read this post of yours, Kay.
We are so lucky Kay. Our forefathers fought those battles fo us.
ReplyDeleteI think President Obama had a very measured approach so far ...we want to be able to have open talks with them no matter who's in charge. Coming down on the violence that has been happening towards the demonstartors is good!
Our country has already been denounced by the government of Iran as backing this revolt.
I'm hoping that it's just the beginning for the Iranian people...the status quo is dismal at the very least for the women over there!
Good post!
A very well presented post....Kay.All we can do is to show our support to a the Iranian citizen ...i think public protest will finally show some positive results...how far can truth be buried....
ReplyDeleteI think the Republican Party is digging a hole they won't get out of. I think Obama did the right thing.
ReplyDeleteI agree that what is happening is both heartbreaking and frightening. I also agree that it is wise to let them handle the revolt without the United States coming in with lead gloves. I believe restraint, while keeping a watchful eye, is the soundest approach. We really don't need to put any more fuel on the "America's at fault" fires.
ReplyDeletewe wish Obama well in his presidency. It must be tough when your every move is scrutinized...like the recent fly swatting incident.
ReplyDeleteI couldn't agree with you more, Kay! And thank you for such a great post! Like Bobbie, I can't imagine what it would be like to have to live with the fear, the restraints, the danger.
ReplyDeleteThank goodness for President Obama and for his approach to the situation. No, not perfect, but better than most.