The Folly of Attacking Iran

I once heard N.T. Wright say that every generation has a story, a context that defines our present circumstances. The problem is that many of us do not know our story, because we do not know the history that led to our existence. Worse, we do not know the stories of those around us, yet we seek to judge them.

This video, by some academics trying to head off war with Iran, reveals some parts of that story that need to be part of the current political discourse.

(hat tip pk)



Robert Naiman wonders how American policy would be different if everyone knew this history, and points out that Barack Obama supports real diplomacy (no preconditions) with Iran.

New movie on the war in Iraq

Obama's AIPAC speech

Palestinian activist, Ali Abunimah gives a fascinating analysis of Barack Obama's recent speech to the America Israel PAC -- fascinating because he has observed Obama for about 10 years in Chicago politics. He talks about Obama's history interacting with Arab American constituents and his ultimate move to support Israel. I think Obama needs to address and explain this history, lest he look like an opportunist playing the political game like everyone else.

Abunimah essay is: "How Barack Obama learned to love Israel".

UPDATE: Apparently Obama's position is a little more nuanced than his earlier speech might indicate. M.J. Rosenberg offers up some commentary.

UPDATE 2: An article in The Jewish Week provides a more extensive background than Abunimah's article. It includes interviews with some of Obama's neighbors and Professor Rashid Khalidi, who hosted a fund raiser for Obama back in the state senate days. (This is going to be a great election season!)