Ending the Islamic State’s Siren Song
Terminating IS requires shutting down their message streams while decisively communicating to prospective acolytes that the caliphate does not offer the rewards it promises.
Arab Uprisings, Iranian Influence, and the Middle East’s Future
Events like the fall of Mubarak and the rise of the Islamic Renaissance Movement in Tunisian politics have led some observers to conclude that fundamentalism’s shadow will be cast over the Middle East. Simultaneously, as Tehran’s leaders trumpet their growing relationships with Islamist groups, it is feared that Iran will come out ahead in the region.
Why is Iran Championing Messianism to the Arab Masses?
Iran is becoming the proverbial elephant in the room. The idea of a religious Armageddon lying around the corner is unusual in Twenty-First Century statecraft, and few national leaders vocalize such beliefs. Iran’s President Ahmadinejad and Supreme Leader Khamenei are stark exceptions. Prudence dictates not discounting the possibility that Ahmadinejad and his cohorts do believe their rhetoric. Vigilance is necessary.
What If Libya’s Qaddafi Hangs On?
Rather than unambiguously backing the cause of freedom in Libya, Western governments seem to be reconciling themselves to the possibility that the regime of Muammar Qaddafi might remain in power. If this is the case the world must prepare for the possible re-emergence of a global threat, Libya’s WMD program.
Decisions Iranians Must Make and Others Should Support
It is absolutely accurate that Iran’s presidential elections began as a matter of that nation’s sovereignty. So did disputes over elections results. But after the regime in Tehran and Qom resorted to threats and violence against its own public, that administration lost its claim to legitimacy.
