Many years ago, I lived in Iran. Indeed I lived in many different parts of the Middle East and know the region well. In many ways, these were some of the happiest times of my life. It depresses me to see how the West now views that region and some of the ignorance that is spouted by our politicians is simply breathtaking in its audacity.
The notion that Islam and/or Arabs are inherently violent and aggressive is absurd and ignorant. Believe it or not, this is an idea that is articulated openly in the western media and by politicians. As a westerner living in the Middle East I never encountered hostility, prejudice or aggression. On the contrary, my abiding memoery is of kindness, hospitality and generosity. I would add that this was over 20 years ago and I imagine I would encounter more hostility now. But there is no inherent disposition to violence or aggression.
For the last half century and probably longer, western superpowers have manipulated, interfered with and controlled the politics of the region to such an extent that bitterness and mistrust were inevitable. The appalling and blind support of Israeli aggression was bound to have consequences. The economic control of the region to support our own way of life was not going to be accepted forever. Even then, there was no systematic aggression aimed at us by Middle Eastern governments. The alleged support of terror networks is not quite the same thing as the mobilisation of a full military opposition.
How low have we sunk?. A country was invaded, the infrastructure decimated, countless thousands killed. All on the basis of LIES. Proven lies. And still the liars are in power in our democracy. And who has gained?. A few American corporations have got fatter. It disgusts me.
And now?. Well the rhetoric is all about Iran. What has Iran ever done to us?. What have they done to threaten us?. Nothing. Two of the countries that border them are under western occupation, Israel is openly hostile, Pakistan has a nuclear capability. Should they not feel threatened and isolated?. How can that imbecile Bush and his henchmen talk in veiled threats. All supported by the weasel Blair and sycophantic Straw.
Be afraid because this is no Iraq. Iran has a well established mature middle class that is largely behind their democratically elected leader. Militarily stronger than Iraq, this could end catastrohically for us. As far as I am concerned the real danger to our civilisation comes from Bush, Blair, and their acolytes. Let's get rid of them and get life back on track!.