Hello Dave,
I did ask the question earlier forgot I was logged in to build the POTW forum so I removed my post.
I was under the impression we were supporting the "Rebels" for some kind of democratic solution to the issue. I actually asked this: 'Weren't we supplying the "Rebels" with weapons?
At least that is the impression I had, at least from the news.
West could arm Syrian rebels within months after Britain wins diplomatic battle
Now we learn that the "rebels" are AlQuieda? Why can the west simply not keep their nose out of this civil war? I understand your friends predicament and the only choice I see for him and others like him is to fight for their country as i would mine.
The Shiites, the Sunnis and the Kurds, plus most other TRIBES have been fighting one another since the 7th or 8th century or for as long as any written history on the area.
Imagine the Republicans and Democrats battling in the streets and us Independents are caught in the middle. Who do you side with in hopes of defeating the common enemy then defeating your ally after that battle/war.
They seem to have a never ending cycle and the West and the powerful Eastern and Asian countries seem to be vying for the weapons deal with concessions without getting their hands dirty. I am afraid Ambassador Stevens was one of those players in this deadly game.
I know its not a game and I really feel for your friend or anyone caught in this terrible damned if you do and damned if you don't situation. But its a civil war and no one but the main players have a say in when and how it ends. We should stay the heck out of it. IMHPO
Jim
Quote:
Someone asked a question that seems to have disappeared: "Weren't we supposed to be supporting the rebels?"
That is far too important of a question to drop, even in this particular forum.
The fact that the media IS NOT sharing, nor is the US administration, is that Assad is Aliwate Muslim and the rebels are mainly Sunni Muslim (which is the branch supported by el-Quaida)
The Sunnis are far more radical than the more moderate Aliwates, and want outright Sharia law in Syria. They will (and are) kill anyone who is not one of them. This war is a lose-lose war that the west is FOOLISH to take a side in. People like my friend, Saied, a national (Syrian-born and bred) Christian pastor and missionary in his own country, want neither side, but a totally new secular government that allows freedom of religion for everyone.
God bless,
Dave