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Rebekah is the Mother of Nations (Genesis 25:23) Rebekah provides understanding of historical, cultural, and geopolitical relationships in the international community.
Significant Point --- During the Persian Gulf War when Saddam Hussein declared the conflict a 'holy war' the chatter among many pundits and scholars was about what constitutes a 'just war'. Such an academic focus does not reflect comprehension regarding the impact of such declaration. The declaration coupled with launching missiles at Israel was an attempt to break the U.S.-led coalition by appealing to historical, cultural prejudices. If Israel had responded with force to the attacks there would have been an escalation to the conflict. Israel's retaliation would have evoked the ole' 'enemy-of-my-enemy-is-my-friend' response from not just from Syria, Lebanon, Iran, Libya, and Egypt but Russia's support for the U.S. in the war may have been weaken insomuch Russia stills harbours ill will towards Israel since the Six-Day War. Now if the conflict had so escalated and the international community's focus became preoccupied with the Middle East, history has shown that China, Korea (North and South), and Japan may be opportunistic in advancing their respective interests.
It's ominous that later Israel has indicated if such actions should occur again it will not remain passive. Furthermore, the current stance of Israel regarding perceived imminent threat of Iran should be regarded with all due concern i.e. prudence and pragmatism. There are some people who may advocate for a more chest-thumping, guns-a'blazing approach to Iran. However, what is needed is a more reasonable not reckless approach.
Significant Point --- Many Americans expressed dismay at and seem unsettled by President Karzai talking to Taliban. It's to be expected. Taliban and Al Qaeda are not synonymous. However, they're like a braided rope. From President Karzai's perspective the discomfiting of Al Qaeda and engaging in talks with the Taliban would not only help stabilize Afghanistan/Afghanistan, but also provide leverage with its neighbor, Pakistan. 'Offering them room at the table', the Taliban may more likely strenghen alliance with Pakistan. Pakistan has been supplying weapons to Taliban in the struggle with India over Kashmir. Consequently there is a major shift in the balance of power in the region. The balance of power affects the respective interests of United States, Israel, Russia, India, Iran, Iraq, Saudia Arabia/United Arabs Emirate, and China. The balance of power affects the global economy specifically as it relates to price of oil. The balance of power affects national & global security as it relates to nuclear weapons proliferation. The balance of power has substantial affect on the ongoing Middle East Peace Process.
Significant Point: Though Iran may be 'saber-rattling', Ahmadinejad is good at misdirection. Be not deceived.
Further Review
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