Know Your Rights

At least 15 students were beaten up and arrested for protesting the continued imprisonment of 8 other students, who have held since May. This is a pretty common occurrence in Iran today, and this is why we should not bomb them (no matter what Podhoretz or Giuliani says). You see, these pro-democracy, pro-liberalization movements will continue to pick up steam in Iran, especially if the government continues to beat and arrest students who are demanding their rights. The economic situation in Iran is pretty bad because of Ahmadinejad's mis-management, and the people are becoming aware of it.

Yes, Ahmadinejad still calls for the destruction of Israel. Yes, he is still intent on developing nuclear power, most likely for weapons. But his people are turning on him, and this will continue as the economic situation deteriorates and pro-democracy movements gain ground. If we bomb Iran, or engage them militarily in any way, nationalism will surge in Iran and the people will rally around Ahmadinejad (think of the pro-Bush, pro-America, anti-Taliban sentiment in the U.S. after 9/11 as compared to the fractious political scene on 9/10, when no one knew or cared who the Taliban was, and more people disliked Bush than liked him).

Now, if Iran actually does threaten the U.S., then we should be prepared to act military in response. But to act preemptively would be disastrous. Anyway, Iran can't threaten the U.S. directly, and Israel has 200 nukes and the largest military (by far) in the MidEast. There is no threat from Iran, and if we encourage pro-democratic movements there with money and verbal support, we can do some good. If we invade or bomb the place, we will set back the cause of democracy and liberty in Iran for a generation or more.

The pro-liberty, pro-democracy, anti-war, anti-Mullah movement is alive and well, and will only grow. Unless we invade and turn the country against us.