Based on past behavior, it is more likely than not that Syria's primary motivation is to gain increased respectability and access (diplomatic, political, economic) to France, Europe and especially the U.S. This, rather than a fundamental desire to active a real peace with Israel, is what motivates its recent diplomatic activity. Moreover, even if Assad were intent on a fundamental change of course, Iran probably has the ability to act as a spoiler, via Hezbollah or Hamas, or even by means of its assets within Syria itself.
Robert Lieber is Professor of Government and International Affairs at Georgetown University. He has written 14 books on international relations and U.S. foreign policy, including his most recent book
The American Era: Power and Strategy for the 21st Century
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Comments (3)
Frankly, I dont see Robert Lieber's opinion representative of the US. He is an apologist for the neocons of this country and we know very well about their one-sided stand regarding the middle east. A more appropriate voice representing the US people (and not the special interests within the US) would be Jimmy Carter; he genuinely cares for the safety of Israel but he is impartial and tells the truth about the situation with Palestine.
November 11, 2008 11:58 AM | Report Offensive Comment
Posted on November 11, 2008 11:58
Well said ASIZK,
This opinion is not even worth commenting. I abstain.
November 10, 2008 5:15 PM | Report Offensive Comment
Posted on November 10, 2008 17:15
Lieber-are u related to Joe Lieberman the israeli stooge in Washington?
Murky motives!!!!!!!! just what does that mean? Is the jewish motives of occupation and aggression innocent or murkey. Why do not u stop insulting our intelligenece with your naive propaganda.
All Syria wants is for the racist apartheid militaristic jewish theocrcay to get the hell out of the Golan hights.
Is that simple enough? No need for u to change the subject as to what Syria wants...
November 10, 2008 2:51 PM | Report Offensive Comment
Posted on November 10, 2008 14:51