Soccer Dad

Uncertain Times

To read today's story in the NY Times about the terrorist attack in Syria you get a sense of uncertainty.

Western and Arab analysts said they were puzzled over what could have been a motive for a terrorist attack on Syria, which fiercely opposed the American-led war in Iraq and has praised the violent insurgency there as legitimate resistance to an occupying force.

Though the Times probably has as many details as anyone its two reporters are unwilling to speculate on a motive.
Aaron Mannes has no such problem. He speculates and it's convincing:

It would be in Syria's interest to portray itself as a victim of terrorism. It might reduce some of the scrutiny of Syria's own activity supporting terror. Then Syria could engage in its best diplomatic tactic - obfuscate, obfuscate, obfuscate.

Mannes of course urges that Syria not be given any benefit of the doubt and be treated as a pariah until it gives up its very real support for terror.
Crossposted on Israpundit and Soccer Dad.

Posted by SoccerDad at April 29, 2004 05:25 AM | TrackBack