OUGHTN'T WE OBLIGE THEM?:

Reckoning With Syria (ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN, September 19, 2007, NY Sun)

Recent reports that the regime in Damascus has been developing its nuclear facilities with the assistance of North Korea are only the latest manifestations of Syria's increasing belligerent stance. Despite attempts to "embrace" the regime in Damascus by some in Congress, under the misguided notion that Syria will moderate its behavior in return, that regime remains actively engaged in dangerous and destructive policies that threaten America, our allies, and our interests in the region. Make no mistake. Syria poses a growing threat that must be confronted.

Damascus remains a stalwart supporter for terrorist organizations and activities throughout the region, from Beirut to Baghdad and Jerusalem, and the fact that Syria remains a hub for Hezbollah and Hamas and a gateway for jihadists to infiltrate Iraq. For example, during last summer's war in Lebanon, Hezbollah reportedly received Russian-made anti-tank missiles from Syria and used them to disable several Israeli tanks.

Additionally, Syria has relentlessly pursued a destabilizing conventional and unconventional military buildup, contributing to regional instability. It has reportedly purchased numerous and varied missiles, and seeks short and long-range ballistic missiles as well. As a means to bolster these efforts, in 2005 Iran and Syria declared that they had formed a mutual self-defense pact to confront the "threats" now facing them.

Rather than let Syria suffer from mere paranoia, shouldn't we realize the threat?

Posted by Orrin Judd at September 19, 2007 7:55 AM