The Obama Libya Speech

Just over one month since Muhmar Gaddafi ordered his military to fire on protesters and one week since we began military action, President Barack Obama spoke about American involvement in the Libyan Civil War. Similar to the 2011 State of the Union, he aimed this speech at those who are not following world events. He claimed to be in complete control, while making his brackets (which showed basketball isn't his strong suit) and playing his 61st round of golf. Remember, it is 9 days since military action has begun. Obama spoke of the importance of "stopping a massacre," yet, he did nothing in the 2009 Iranian Green Revolution. He spoke of the "peaceful and inspiring revolutions" in Egypt and Tunisia, yet there was evidence of violence in Egypt, and it also looks as if the 3rd governments may be no better than what was overthrown. It also seems there is a great chasm in what he says versus the comments of members of his administration. To further add to the confusion of this speech, there are still questions that need to be answered.

1) Who are the Libyan Rebels?
2) If Gaddafi is overthrown, by us or the Libyan Rebels, who or what will lead Libya?
3) Is it a new precedent that America will get involved in Civil Wars/government protests, in the region, or around the world, that may have little bearing on American national interest?
4) What happens after the American troops end their "leadership" in the military action?
5) What is America's pressing interest in getting involved?
6) What are the Arab nations' interests in opposing Gaddafi?

These six questions need to be answered, not only for the sake of our brave men and women serving in the military, but also as this administration claims itself to be the most open and transparent, yet still has problems actually showing they are.

Two interesting notes about the speech:

- While taking credit for the great job the military did, he took a shot at Clinton's Bosnia/Kosovo timeframe.
- He still can't stop taking a shots at Bush and his Iraq policy.