With latest reports of at least 35 dead and hundreds injured in the fifth day of the Egyptian protests, Ambassador John Bolton warns today that, "We are not on the verge of the Dawning of the Age of Aquarius in Egypt if only the demonstrators get their way". Bolton says that 'in this very complex, very fast moving situation," the strategic interests of the U.S. in Egypt are enormous, profound and "critical".
Bolton predicts, "If the Muslim Brotherhood can bring down the government and install a radical Islam regime there, in control of the Suez Canal, one can only wonder what will happen in the oil rich kingdoms of the Arabian peninsula. So there's a lot that rides on the outcome of this that will have a direct impact on America's economy and America's security."
In a quick outline of the Egyptian power structure, chronological progression, and America's interests - Bolton points out that:
- Mubarak is now head of a regime that's been in power since the overthrow of King Farouk in 1952
- America has been generous with money, beginning in the Carter administration, because of the Camp David Accord.
- The military and Mubarak are the fundamental source of power in Egypt
- Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak has been in power for thirty years.
- Mubarak is closely allied to the Egyptian military
- Mubarak is a former general
- Mubarak is former head of the Egyptian air force
- Whether Mubarak goes or stays is "less important than whether the military stays in control"
Following , transcribed from the video available on the left side bar, are Bolton's reasons why the U.S. is intensely watchful as the Egyptian turmoil progresses:
We have a profound interest in the stability of the Israeli Egyptian peace relationship. We've got a strong relationship with the Egyptian military. Mubarak, while no Jeffersonian Democrat, to be sure, has been an American ally for thirty years. These are not things you toss away lightly - against the promise, the hope, the aspiration for sweetness and light and democratic government.
Comments
Is this yet more 'Wars and rumors of wars'? I'm so weary, however, being here in America, we can live a pretty safe and free life - so far.
Hi Dev,
In addition to the obvious “enormous, profound and "critical" “ uprising in Egypt and potential outcomes, this statement from Mr. Bolton stands out;
“We have a profound interest in the stability of the Israeli Egyptian peace relationship.”
We know, and Øbama has shown in no uncertain terms, that he is not a friend to Israel. I read the info on your previous blog, about the US perhaps being behind this current uprising in Egypt. If true, and knowing the distain Øbama holds for Israel (among other US allies), this makes this event, and the implications, even more treacherous.
Tiny Israel has only two “allies” in the entire region ~ Egypt and Jordan. If Egypt falls into Islamic extremist hands, the entire region could blow and Israel will be in for the fight of its very existence. And with Arab-sympathetic/supporting Øbama at our helm….we will turn a blind eye………
I cannot help but think of this passage in Genesis ~
“I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. *I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse*; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” Genesis 12:2-3
Amen, Sharon. Amen, Deni.
How much nearer the "precipice" must Israel feel?
“I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. *I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse*; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” Genesis 12:2-3
Yes Dev, I am sure tensions are high in Israel at this time, I can only imagine.
My opinions are based solely on Øbama's *actions* towards the different foreign leaders.
Contrast his lavish treatment of China's leader Tu (enemy?), with his treatment of Netanyahu (ally?).
Here are some headline reminders;
Obama’s Treatment of Israeli Leader Disconcerting
Binyamin Netanyahu humiliated after Barack Obama 'dumped him …
Obama dinner snub of Netanyahu reveals depth of US-Israel rift
Obama "snubs and humiliates" Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin....
Obama, the Nobel Peace Prize Winner, Snubs Israel
Obama Snubs Israel… AGAIN!
Does this president have any vague conception of what country he represents? Barack Obama has proven himself to make a habit of literally bowing to our enemies, apologizing for America’s great and noble history as a world leader, and to walking out on one of our closest allies—Israel."
***
"For a head of government to visit the White House and not pose for photographers is rare. However, Pro-Islamic Obama refused to allow his picture to be taken with Jewish Netanyahu, the Jews being the sworn hated enemy of Muslims, world-wide. For the leader of a "key ally nation" to be left to his own devices while the President withdraws to have dinner in private was, until this week, unheard of - in all of American History!"
The most glaring thing about this administration is not knowing who to distrust first.
Israel has to be wondering how this will end and at what cost.
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