Hm. Here's another viewpoint on Hariri. It seems his agenda prominently featured Arabizing Lebanon and suppression of the Christian population. So maybe there are other forces at play here. Wouldn't it be ironic if it wasn't Syria behind his assassination, after all? 
Hm. Here's another viewpoint on Hariri. It seems his agenda prominently featured Arabizing Lebanon and suppression of the Christian population. So maybe there are other forces at play here. Wouldn't it be ironic if it wasn't Syria behind his assassination, after all?
Brian, I would believe that's a bit extreme. As a Lebanese, I can tell you that Hariri was not really loved, due to his tax policy, the huge deficit, and various accusations of corruption leveled against his ministers. Furthermore, he neglected vast regions of Lebanon in favor of Beirut and his hometown of Sidon. However, Hariri, being a businessman first and foremost, recognized the allure of the Christians in Lebanon, and of the image the presented. Without Lebanese christians, Lebanon would be just another arab country... that's bad for business.
His death was truly mourned. His arch-enemies, at worst, saw a bright hope in the aftermath of that bombing, and had only good things to say of him.
In the end, the man died for his country. No patriotic Lebanese needs to look beyond that.
Secondly, even if it wasn't the Syrians behind the assasination, they claim that their presence is for security purposes. Therefore, the assasination shows a huge lapse in security, and they a
Brian, I would believe that's a bit extreme. As a Lebanese, I can tell you that Hariri was not really loved, due to his tax policy, the huge deficit, and various accusations of corruption leveled against his ministers. Furthermore, he neglected vast regions of Lebanon in favor of Beirut and his hometown of Sidon. However, Hariri, being a businessman first and foremost, recognized the allure of the Christians in Lebanon, and of the image the presented. Without Lebanese christians, Lebanon would be just another arab country... that's bad for business.
His death was truly mourned. His arch-enemies, at worst, saw a bright hope in the aftermath of that bombing, and had only good things to say of him.
In the end, the man died for his country. No patriotic Lebanese needs to look beyond that.
Secondly, even if it wasn't the Syrians behind the assasination, they claim that their presence is for security purposes. Therefore, the assasination shows a huge lapse in security, and they a
I disagree with
minority rule, means chaos, terrorism, and war."
Lebanon is ruled by Maronites, who once were a majority, but are a minority at the moment.
The US is also ruled by a minority and so are several other countries.
As a lebanese I prefer alawi's ruling syria than sunnis.
I disagree with
minority rule, means chaos, terrorism, and war."
Lebanon is ruled by Maronites, who once were a majority, but are a minority at the moment.
The US is also ruled by a minority and so are several other countries.
As a lebanese I prefer alawi's ruling syria than sunnis.
My biggest fear is a full blown war between the two nations.
Will Syria or Lebanon attack if there demands are not met? What would happen in that situation is incredibly scary, especially when considering the involvement of the United States and Russia in the two nations.
Sometimes I just wish the UN worked better, for example, when they pass a resolution, I think the world would be much better off if someone would listen.
My biggest fear is a full blown war between the two nations.
Will Syria or Lebanon attack if there demands are not met? What would happen in that situation is incredibly scary, especially when considering the involvement of the United States and Russia in the two nations.
Sometimes I just wish the UN worked better, for example, when they pass a resolution, I think the world would be much better off if someone would listen.
The US is "ruled" by a minority?
Who knew?
The US is "ruled" by a minority?
Who knew?
Wow - Bill, I'm an Independent that leans conservative. I didn't vote for ya but I wasn't one of those the 'demonized' you either. Good post.
Wow - Bill, I'm an Independent that leans conservative. I didn't vote for ya but I wasn't one of those the 'demonized' you either. Good post.
rampurple is clueless... the US is not ruled by a minority. Sounds like typical liberal 'wishful thinking' - "We're the majority...but we just keep losing those elections" (duh)
rampurple is clueless... the US is not ruled by a minority. Sounds like typical liberal 'wishful thinking' - "We're the majority...but we just keep losing those elections" (duh)
The minority that rules is the "InBelters", and they rule the "OutBelters". 
Bill;
Your observation about dictators brings to mind an image of a Rod of State with a Dead Man switch; once it's released, it explodes. A dictator has almost no option but to keep hold, awkwardly shifting his grasp now and then but never releasing that lever. No analogy is perfect, but I can't think of any contrary examples at the moment -- can you?
The minority that rules is the "InBelters", and they rule the "OutBelters".
Bill;
Your observation about dictators brings to mind an image of a Rod of State with a Dead Man switch; once it's released, it explodes. A dictator has almost no option but to keep hold, awkwardly shifting his grasp now and then but never releasing that lever. No analogy is perfect, but I can't think of any contrary examples at the moment -- can you?
"A dictator has almost no option but to keep hold, awkwardly shifting his grasp now and then but never releasing that lever. "
Good metaphor. The dictators all know what happened to Mussolini or Ciaucescu. They are right to be paranoid.
One of the most important laws for any country is that nobody should stay in power for more than ten years - and it should also be illegal for close relatives to immediately take over. There should be a break from the family of at least eight years.
"A dictator has almost no option but to keep hold, awkwardly shifting his grasp now and then but never releasing that lever. "
Good metaphor. The dictators all know what happened to Mussolini or Ciaucescu. They are right to be paranoid.
One of the most important laws for any country is that nobody should stay in power for more than ten years - and it should also be illegal for close relatives to immediately take over. There should be a break from the family of at least eight years.
Exactly!
Exactly!
There have been plenty of experts debunking the theory that Syria had Hariri killed, for weeks now, so it is rather suspect that former President Bill Clinton is presuming to believe so.
I like the al-Zarqawi theory, but that may be too convenient. I can't seem to stray too far from the idea that a radical from within Saudi Arabia, who (like most of his countrymen) opposes the ruling regime there, had a major part to play in Hariri's assassination.
There have been plenty of experts debunking the theory that Syria had Hariri killed, for weeks now, so it is rather suspect that former President Bill Clinton is presuming to believe so.
I like the al-Zarqawi theory, but that may be too convenient. I can't seem to stray too far from the idea that a radical from within Saudi Arabia, who (like most of his countrymen) opposes the ruling regime there, had a major part to play in Hariri's assassination.
I could not have summed it up better!!!!
I could not have summed it up better!!!!
Whoa there..! Bill, do you support the Bush Doctrine? I had no idea. Big ups for understanding the Big Issue. More Democrats like this, please. Peace.
Whoa there..! Bill, do you support the Bush Doctrine? I had no idea. Big ups for understanding the Big Issue. More Democrats like this, please. Peace.
Kudos on starting a blog and thank you for that informative post.
I believe I have learned more about the actual mechanics of the problems over in Syria and Lebanon from reading this short piece than I have from reading dozens of different articles over the last month.
I hope you continue to post in the same manner, providing an experienced 'insider's view' of world events.
Kudos on starting a blog and thank you for that informative post.
I believe I have learned more about the actual mechanics of the problems over in Syria and Lebanon from reading this short piece than I have from reading dozens of different articles over the last month.
I hope you continue to post in the same manner, providing an experienced 'insider's view' of world events.
I see the Hillary campaign is well underway. Well, whatever your other faults, no one can claim you're not a great campaigner. And I agree with everything you wrote in this post.
I see the Hillary campaign is well underway. Well, whatever your other faults, no one can claim you're not a great campaigner. And I agree with everything you wrote in this post.
Everybody I have talked to down here thinks- that they know -that Iran was behind the killing. They convinced Dumb ass to get his Security force to do the actual work.
No one can agree on exactly what Iran promised, other than to come to Syria's aid if they were attacked. But all bets are leaning toward a couple of nukes and the missles to deliver them.
Iran wants ---TIME---time to make their bombs, arm their missles and then dare anyone to do anything about it.
Papa Ray
West Texas
USA
Everybody I have talked to down here thinks- that they know -that Iran was behind the killing. They convinced Dumb ass to get his Security force to do the actual work.
No one can agree on exactly what Iran promised, other than to come to Syria's aid if they were attacked. But all bets are leaning toward a couple of nukes and the missles to deliver them.
Iran wants ---TIME---time to make their bombs, arm their missles and then dare anyone to do anything about it.
Papa Ray
West Texas
USA
Bill Clinton: You Rule! I think I Love You! Keep up the great posts!
Bill Clinton: You Rule! I think I Love You! Keep up the great posts!
.
Well said, Mr President. But one thing: Why didn`t you try to do anything about the situation in Lebanon during your eight years in office?
.
.
Well said, Mr President. But one thing: Why didn`t you try to do anything about the situation in Lebanon during your eight years in office?
.
This is amazing. How can anyone claim with certainty to know who Killed Hariri. Maybe we should follow the same approach in any future trial; just get a good expert to guess who did it.
So in this case, we can ignore that some Maronites, some Shi'a, the Israelis, and the other mafia-like business warlords could have been involved.
Big assassinations are rarely done without a multi-level camoflage. For example, if a competing local big business man wanted to get rid of Hariri who did not let anyone else benefit from the huge projects of reconstruction of Lebanon (it was mostly going to his pocket), then they could hint to a local Lebanese Shi'a Intelligence general to convince some poor Hezbollah young man to kill himself along with Hariri.
And since we are condemning minority rule, let us not fogret that Hariri's Sunnis are a minority in Lebanon. Those who wanted him to come back as a bigger Mr. Lebanon, should have tried harder to be fair and consistent. Lebanese Shi'a are the biggest sect in Lebanon. Either you advocate that their favorite party (Hezbollah) form the next government in Lebanon, or you should not be very upset at the minority rule in Syria.
So you really do not like the fact Syria is a secular country ruled by a minority who respected the rights of all minorities including the 12% Christians to the degree that Syria has the Catholic and Orthodox Easters as two national holidays. Something no other Christian country can match.
And you really do not think there is any value in the fact Syria is the safest country in the Middle East for its citizens. One of the world's lowest crime and violence rates. Not bad for being in the Middle East.
Anyway, semi-acceptable Democratic changes are coming to Syria soon (the next few months).
This is amazing. How can anyone claim with certainty to know who Killed Hariri. Maybe we should follow the same approach in any future trial; just get a good expert to guess who did it.
So in this case, we can ignore that some Maronites, some Shi'a, the Israelis, and the other mafia-like business warlords could have been involved.
Big assassinations are rarely done without a multi-level camoflage. For example, if a competing local big business man wanted to get rid of Hariri who did not let anyone else benefit from the huge projects of reconstruction of Lebanon (it was mostly going to his pocket), then they could hint to a local Lebanese Shi'a Intelligence general to convince some poor Hezbollah young man to kill himself along with Hariri.
And since we are condemning minority rule, let us not fogret that Hariri's Sunnis are a minority in Lebanon. Those who wanted him to come back as a bigger Mr. Lebanon, should have tried harder to be fair and consistent. Lebanese Shi'a are the biggest sect in Lebanon. Either you advocate that their favorite party (Hezbollah) form the next government in Lebanon, or you should not be very upset at the minority rule in Syria.
So you really do not like the fact Syria is a secular country ruled by a minority who respected the rights of all minorities including the 12% Christians to the degree that Syria has the Catholic and Orthodox Easters as two national holidays. Something no other Christian country can match.
And you really do not think there is any value in the fact Syria is the safest country in the Middle East for its citizens. One of the world's lowest crime and violence rates. Not bad for being in the Middle East.
Anyway, semi-acceptable Democratic changes are coming to Syria soon (the next few months).
Mr President, I am a Lebanese Canadian and I have been following very closely the situation in my motherland for years. I have never seen a politician that understood as well as you did the situation in Lebanon and the role the Syrians are playing. Finaly a true world leader is spelling it out loud and clear. Many thanks for a great article, and a laser sharp insight. You truly are a my hero.
Mr President, I am a Lebanese Canadian and I have been following very closely the situation in my motherland for years. I have never seen a politician that understood as well as you did the situation in Lebanon and the role the Syrians are playing. Finaly a true world leader is spelling it out loud and clear. Many thanks for a great article, and a laser sharp insight. You truly are a my hero.
Mr President
we want the truth, this is the only thing that matters for the time being.
Tomorrow Peter Fitzgerald is releasing the Inquiry report on the circumstances of the assassination Of Rafik Hariri.
This morning a bomb was placed in a commercial mall , north of Beirut.
the reaction from the citizens was immediate and a huge lebanese flag was wrapping the bombed building this afternoon.
We will not resign!!!
Bachar al assad told Hariri that if he pushed syrians out of Lebanon, they would give back his country as they have taken it in 1976...
We know for a fact that most lebaneese are united and the civil war is behind them. Their strategy of fear and bombs will not prevail.
Mr President
we want the truth, this is the only thing that matters for the time being.
Tomorrow Peter Fitzgerald is releasing the Inquiry report on the circumstances of the assassination Of Rafik Hariri.
This morning a bomb was placed in a commercial mall , north of Beirut.
the reaction from the citizens was immediate and a huge lebanese flag was wrapping the bombed building this afternoon.
We will not resign!!!
Bachar al assad told Hariri that if he pushed syrians out of Lebanon, they would give back his country as they have taken it in 1976...
We know for a fact that most lebaneese are united and the civil war is behind them. Their strategy of fear and bombs will not prevail.
Dear president Clinton:
Your post demonstrates the depth of your understanding of world affairs.
I have read carefully your analysis of who, in Syria, could have given this order and why you think that is so.
I also believe stressing Bashar's "weak" rule is intended to blur the picture and give the Syrians more leeway for action, and then erase the traces or mix things up.
It has been estabished that Bashar told Hariri more than a year ago that:
"I and I only choose the next president of Lebanon, neither the US nor anybody else in Syria", and he proceded to demonstrate that emphatically in August of 2004.
I, like many Lebanese, believe the order has been issued by Bashar. We also believe that the Syrians never expected the uprising (now referred to as cedar revolution) to unfold with such momentum.
One of the most talked about banners during the protests has been spreading thru the internet, it reads "faja-anakoum moou?" meaning "we surprised you, didn't we?"
Dear president Clinton:
Your post demonstrates the depth of your understanding of world affairs.
I have read carefully your analysis of who, in Syria, could have given this order and why you think that is so.
I also believe stressing Bashar's "weak" rule is intended to blur the picture and give the Syrians more leeway for action, and then erase the traces or mix things up.
It has been estabished that Bashar told Hariri more than a year ago that:
"I and I only choose the next president of Lebanon, neither the US nor anybody else in Syria", and he proceded to demonstrate that emphatically in August of 2004.
I, like many Lebanese, believe the order has been issued by Bashar. We also believe that the Syrians never expected the uprising (now referred to as cedar revolution) to unfold with such momentum.
One of the most talked about banners during the protests has been spreading thru the internet, it reads "faja-anakoum moou?" meaning "we surprised you, didn't we?"
President Clinton,
I am impressed by your insight. The Syrian regime needs to understand that there is a new and consistent US policy towards the ME region, one that does not tolerate terrorism. I only wish that the US had not constantly changed its stance and alliances so many times in the Middle East, because we would have all been better off, a long time ago - including Israel.
The US should not have given the green light to Syria in the early 90s to take over Lebanon, as a prize for supporting the Gulf War. Unfortunately, it took the loss of a GREAT man to get us back to talking about independence and democracy in Lebanon. Let's pray this time that the international support is consistent.
President Clinton,
I am impressed by your insight. The Syrian regime needs to understand that there is a new and consistent US policy towards the ME region, one that does not tolerate terrorism. I only wish that the US had not constantly changed its stance and alliances so many times in the Middle East, because we would have all been better off, a long time ago - including Israel.
The US should not have given the green light to Syria in the early 90s to take over Lebanon, as a prize for supporting the Gulf War. Unfortunately, it took the loss of a GREAT man to get us back to talking about independence and democracy in Lebanon. Let's pray this time that the international support is consistent.
Mr. Clinton, I really enjoyed reading your point of view about the Lebanon. You're great !!!
If the USA are serious about spreading democracy in the Middle East, the Stalinian regime of Syria should be swept away. They are all big criminals belonging to the same infamous school of Saddam Hussein : Baath.
With them, American and European Governments should not waste their time. The Alawis only understand the langage of death and violence !
Mr. Clinton, I really enjoyed reading your point of view about the Lebanon. You're great !!!
If the USA are serious about spreading democracy in the Middle East, the Stalinian regime of Syria should be swept away. They are all big criminals belonging to the same infamous school of Saddam Hussein : Baath.
With them, American and European Governments should not waste their time. The Alawis only understand the langage of death and violence !
Just got linked to your letter.it's a bit ironic how all of a sudden LEBANON is on the map again.i can agree with some of the coments about the late Rafic Hariri, corruption, segregation and other things. but i believe in his vision to a certain point.i believe in looking towards the futur and planing for once in our history.i am convinced of the futur of lebanon and beirut being the capital of leisure and services. my only unanswered question goes to you MR Clinton: AT WHAT PRICE?
Just got linked to your letter.it's a bit ironic how all of a sudden LEBANON is on the map again.i can agree with some of the coments about the late Rafic Hariri, corruption, segregation and other things. but i believe in his vision to a certain point.i believe in looking towards the futur and planing for once in our history.i am convinced of the futur of lebanon and beirut being the capital of leisure and services. my only unanswered question goes to you MR Clinton: AT WHAT PRICE?
There are substantial reasons for Syria to assasinate Harriri .With a 20% unemployment rate in Syria , Lebanon is considered as a lucrative channel for the syrian government by milking the financial sources in Lebanon and by opening up borders for CHEAP Syrian labour ,getting corrupt payments , from airport taxis , port , flooding the market with cheaper syrian products , bullying the lebanese poeple , and maintaining their security by assasinating head political figures , including the pressuring of Israel and the world community by maintaining a rogue militia in the south .
There are substantial reasons for Syria to assasinate Harriri .With a 20% unemployment rate in Syria , Lebanon is considered as a lucrative channel for the syrian government by milking the financial sources in Lebanon and by opening up borders for CHEAP Syrian labour ,getting corrupt payments , from airport taxis , port , flooding the market with cheaper syrian products , bullying the lebanese poeple , and maintaining their security by assasinating head political figures , including the pressuring of Israel and the world community by maintaining a rogue militia in the south .
Dear Mr. Clinton,
I could not help but be intrigued with your vision of a better Iraq and Syria. Democracies in which a religious majority rules a religious minority!!!!! Is this equivalent to a white majority ruling a coloured one in the United States? It is. The presence of Condolesa Rice and Collin Powell do not convince me that the United States has achieved the ultimate emancipation from racial discrimination. I would be convinced the day I write this letter to a black president.
But let us not stray from the main point.
You see Mr. President, we live in young nations. Nations that have obtained (or been given) their independence only in the past century. We have always been present here as communities, but never as sovereign nations. After our countries became independent, we have see-sawed on both sides of the polar division that marked the 20th centuries and implemented our own interpretations of communism, socialism, capitalism, totalitarianism, and most often a “blend” of the all preceding “isms”. But again, we are very young nations, and still have a long drive towards giving birth to modern, liberal, and free societies.
Hence, my disillusionment towards your visions on democracies in Syria and Iraq. You see we are still struggling with religion in this part of the world. Religion here does not complement our ways of living, it dictates it. It is not a torch that we hold to light our ways, but rather a fire by which we are threatened if we go astray. Religion is not only the opium of the minds in this part of the world, but also a dagger we used to slaughter each other times and over again.
We relentlessly pursue the day in which religion and sectarianism become old scars that we see, but do not feel, on each others’ faces. We want the day to come, in which we look around and see fellow citizens, not crosses and crescents. The day in which preachers confine themselves to the houses of God, and abandon their seats in parliaments and political parties. This is why it is not the objectives of young Arabs to let majority Shiites rule in Iraq, or Sunnis in Syria. Nor it is our objectives to leave Lebanon chained to silly distribution of power among sects.
Mr. President, it did not take you eight years to understand. You came to office because you understood. Maybe you, your predecessors or the current president of the USA can explain why your governments have been cultivating regimes that have deprived its people from the most essential element of dignified human existence: Freedom. Can you deny the fact that Iraqi Regime has been sponsored for decades by the USA? Can you deny that the US is the strongest ally of some of the world’s most retarded, criminal and oppressive monarchies in the world, and that all of these monarchies are located between Morocco and Yemen? Can you tell us who brought Taliban into power in Afghanistan in the first place? Can you tell us who provided international cover to Syria’s disgraceful oc
Dear Mr. Clinton,
I could not help but be intrigued with your vision of a better Iraq and Syria. Democracies in which a religious majority rules a religious minority!!!!! Is this equivalent to a white majority ruling a coloured one in the United States? It is. The presence of Condolesa Rice and Collin Powell do not convince me that the United States has achieved the ultimate emancipation from racial discrimination. I would be convinced the day I write this letter to a black president.
But let us not stray from the main point.
You see Mr. President, we live in young nations. Nations that have obtained (or been given) their independence only in the past century. We have always been present here as communities, but never as sovereign nations. After our countries became independent, we have see-sawed on both sides of the polar division that marked the 20th centuries and implemented our own interpretations of communism, socialism, capitalism, totalitarianism, and most often a “blend” of the all preceding “isms”. But again, we are very young nations, and still have a long drive towards giving birth to modern, liberal, and free societies.
Hence, my disillusionment towards your visions on democracies in Syria and Iraq. You see we are still struggling with religion in this part of the world. Religion here does not complement our ways of living, it dictates it. It is not a torch that we hold to light our ways, but rather a fire by which we are threatened if we go astray. Religion is not only the opium of the minds in this part of the world, but also a dagger we used to slaughter each other times and over again.
We relentlessly pursue the day in which religion and sectarianism become old scars that we see, but do not feel, on each others’ faces. We want the day to come, in which we look around and see fellow citizens, not crosses and crescents. The day in which preachers confine themselves to the houses of God, and abandon their seats in parliaments and political parties. This is why it is not the objectives of young Arabs to let majority Shiites rule in Iraq, or Sunnis in Syria. Nor it is our objectives to leave Lebanon chained to silly distribution of power among sects.
Mr. President, it did not take you eight years to understand. You came to office because you understood. Maybe you, your predecessors or the current president of the USA can explain why your governments have been cultivating regimes that have deprived its people from the most essential element of dignified human existence: Freedom. Can you deny the fact that Iraqi Regime has been sponsored for decades by the USA? Can you deny that the US is the strongest ally of some of the world’s most retarded, criminal and oppressive monarchies in the world, and that all of these monarchies are located between Morocco and Yemen? Can you tell us who brought Taliban into power in Afghanistan in the first place? Can you tell us who provided international cover to Syria’s disgraceful oc
....(continued )yria’s disgraceful occupation of Lebanon for the past Thirty years? Can you tell us who provided international cover to Israel’s brutal occupation of Lebanon for the past twenty years?
Please do not preach to us on peace, you have done more than your fair share to deny us of its blessings.
We as Lebanese want to restore the sovereignty of our nation, and we will. And will continue to evolve until our societies are emancipated from the stains of religious civil wars, corruption, and the iron grip of secret services. But we will do it on our own. Because we do not trust the United States. Because the United States have turned a blind eye on the Israeli war machines killing Palestinian children and women. Because Taliban fought its wars with your weapons and financing. Because you have acted against what you believe in outside the borders of your nation. Because the strategic interests of the USA, as defined by contemporary US presidents, contradict with the very existence of Arab people in free sovereign nations.
These are pitiful times, when we are stranded between the hammers of superpowers like the USA and the walls of tyrannies that are our regimes.
....(continued )yria’s disgraceful occupation of Lebanon for the past Thirty years? Can you tell us who provided international cover to Israel’s brutal occupation of Lebanon for the past twenty years?
Please do not preach to us on peace, you have done more than your fair share to deny us of its blessings.
We as Lebanese want to restore the sovereignty of our nation, and we will. And will continue to evolve until our societies are emancipated from the stains of religious civil wars, corruption, and the iron grip of secret services. But we will do it on our own. Because we do not trust the United States. Because the United States have turned a blind eye on the Israeli war machines killing Palestinian children and women. Because Taliban fought its wars with your weapons and financing. Because you have acted against what you believe in outside the borders of your nation. Because the strategic interests of the USA, as defined by contemporary US presidents, contradict with the very existence of Arab people in free sovereign nations.
These are pitiful times, when we are stranded between the hammers of superpowers like the USA and the walls of tyrannies that are our regimes.
Dear Mr. Clinton,
Thank you for this article. What you wrote is mostly like many of us Lebanese see the situation. I also, can’t sleep since I see what is happening to my country!
I would like to answer the following person "C. FROM MONTREAL | 03.22.05 - 7:50 pm" who wrote:
"...And you really do not think there is any value in the fact Syria is the safest country in the Middle East for its citizens. One of the world's lowest crime and violence rates. Not bad for being in the Middle East."
Dear Mr.C,
Very bad for being in the MEA! Did you ever live in Lebanon, Mr.C? If not let me tell you the following, because I lived all my life in Lebanon:
If the Syrians have a safe country as you say, well they accomplished and are still accomplishing successfully their crimes and violence in Lebanon and in other parts of the world.
Let’s just talk about Lebanon. We Lebanese suffered and endured A LOT from:
-Syrians bombarding us and killing so many LEBANESE.
-Syrians robbing us in many different ways (Country and private people)
-Syrians destroying the 100 years old trees that my grandparents planted in the Bekaa to replace them by their tanks and war machines
-Syrians controlling our passports when we wished to go from one point to another in our OWN country
- Syrians throwing out people from their own houses to use them as offices for their secret agents
- Syrians street's vegetables and "Kaak" sellers controlling every Lebanese street and knowing the names of each family in each apartment – also “Moukhabaraat”
-Syrians controlling thousands of phone lines
- Syrians kidnapping many INNOCENT Lebanese people and putting them in their JAILS and torturing them. Some are dead by now after several years in the worst prisons of the world. Hundreds are still there and ALL have no reasons to be there!!!
- Syrians putting huge pressure to close a free TV stations and attacking young Lebanese people who manifested several times for a free Lebanon.
-Syrians who killed so many patriotic Lebanese politicians and heroes
-Syrians AND the hundred car explosions all over the years... I start believing that they invented it!
- And what is more SAD is the pro-Syrian president Lahoud who is "...." I can't even find an adjective to describe him. I would just repeat what Mr. Clinton said because it describes him so well, like his friend Assad : "A dictator wants to stay in power. That's all. A dictator doesn't care about his population, war, peace. He only wants to stay in power. Everything else is negotiable."
- And Yes I do believe that Syria has to do with all these late car explosions and in the destabilization of the country.
And so on...the list is long!
If you wish to know more about "the safety and security situations!!!" that Syria always PROCLAIMS and creates in Lebanon please ask Lebanese people living in Lebanon! The List is very long...
Good for Syrians if they have a safe country but they have the most
Dear Mr. Clinton,
Thank you for this article. What you wrote is mostly like many of us Lebanese see the situation. I also, can’t sleep since I see what is happening to my country!
I would like to answer the following person "C. FROM MONTREAL | 03.22.05 - 7:50 pm" who wrote:
"...And you really do not think there is any value in the fact Syria is the safest country in the Middle East for its citizens. One of the world's lowest crime and violence rates. Not bad for being in the Middle East."
Dear Mr.C,
Very bad for being in the MEA! Did you ever live in Lebanon, Mr.C? If not let me tell you the following, because I lived all my life in Lebanon:
If the Syrians have a safe country as you say, well they accomplished and are still accomplishing successfully their crimes and violence in Lebanon and in other parts of the world.
Let’s just talk about Lebanon. We Lebanese suffered and endured A LOT from:
-Syrians bombarding us and killing so many LEBANESE.
-Syrians robbing us in many different ways (Country and private people)
-Syrians destroying the 100 years old trees that my grandparents planted in the Bekaa to replace them by their tanks and war machines
-Syrians controlling our passports when we wished to go from one point to another in our OWN country
- Syrians throwing out people from their own houses to use them as offices for their secret agents
- Syrians street's vegetables and "Kaak" sellers controlling every Lebanese street and knowing the names of each family in each apartment – also “Moukhabaraat”
-Syrians controlling thousands of phone lines
- Syrians kidnapping many INNOCENT Lebanese people and putting them in their JAILS and torturing them. Some are dead by now after several years in the worst prisons of the world. Hundreds are still there and ALL have no reasons to be there!!!
- Syrians putting huge pressure to close a free TV stations and attacking young Lebanese people who manifested several times for a free Lebanon.
-Syrians who killed so many patriotic Lebanese politicians and heroes
-Syrians AND the hundred car explosions all over the years... I start believing that they invented it!
- And what is more SAD is the pro-Syrian president Lahoud who is "...." I can't even find an adjective to describe him. I would just repeat what Mr. Clinton said because it describes him so well, like his friend Assad : "A dictator wants to stay in power. That's all. A dictator doesn't care about his population, war, peace. He only wants to stay in power. Everything else is negotiable."
- And Yes I do believe that Syria has to do with all these late car explosions and in the destabilization of the country.
And so on...the list is long!
If you wish to know more about "the safety and security situations!!!" that Syria always PROCLAIMS and creates in Lebanon please ask Lebanese people living in Lebanon! The List is very long...
Good for Syrians if they have a safe country but they have the most
Continue:
.... miserable, unhappy, controlled people, having a lack of civil liberties and freedom.
We pity them in Lebanon.
In Brief: Syria never protected Lebanon or helped us to have more security and safety! Syrian troupes were a nightmare since the day they entered the country. And to Mr. Assad no we don't want to say Thank you Syria but please LEAVE. Stop fooling the world and us!
Besides if you watch the Syrian news... It is so pathetic how they inform the Syrian people and how they fabricate the news... PATHETIC!"LANGUE DE BOIS" as they say it so well in French.
In two words: Syria must go out now from all the Lebanese territory with its troops, secret agents, arms and all its supporters in Lebanon.
Unfortunately with all what happened in Lebanon since one year (the creation of the opposition, 1556, Hariri's death, all the Lebanese population on the streets, etc...) They are STILL there!!!!
By they way, Mr. Clinton, I also love Fleetwood Mac and "Tell me Lies"...
Have a nice Beginning of Spring,
Continue:
.... miserable, unhappy, controlled people, having a lack of civil liberties and freedom.
We pity them in Lebanon.
In Brief: Syria never protected Lebanon or helped us to have more security and safety! Syrian troupes were a nightmare since the day they entered the country. And to Mr. Assad no we don't want to say Thank you Syria but please LEAVE. Stop fooling the world and us!
Besides if you watch the Syrian news... It is so pathetic how they inform the Syrian people and how they fabricate the news... PATHETIC!"LANGUE DE BOIS" as they say it so well in French.
In two words: Syria must go out now from all the Lebanese territory with its troops, secret agents, arms and all its supporters in Lebanon.
Unfortunately with all what happened in Lebanon since one year (the creation of the opposition, 1556, Hariri's death, all the Lebanese population on the streets, etc...) They are STILL there!!!!
By they way, Mr. Clinton, I also love Fleetwood Mac and "Tell me Lies"...
Have a nice Beginning of Spring,
Mr. President:
First of all I was so disappointed to read what you have written because I thought that you are one of few men in the united state how really care about the truth, and you belong to the people who are smart enough not to judge any one just because they think so.
I think any one in this word have the right to say that this country or that country did this or that just depending on what they feel, but you as a former president of the united state I don’t really think it is the best idea to judge any one and investigations are not done yet, or can you please tell me why Mr. Anan will send the fact finding group to Lebanon, spending all that time and money, why he just did not came to you and you can tell him the hole story since you know every thing Mr president.
Mr. President I am not writing this to defend the Syrian Government and all the big mistakes they did in Lebanon, but I just want to say that do you think that the Syrian will do such a stupid mistake and turn all the word against them just because ALHARERE want them out, or do you really think that the UN resolution 1559 was made in the last three or four months, and if yes so what the hell is all these talk from Israel, the said that it was a great victory and they worked on that resolution for more than three years. Another thing I would like to say is the paper that every one knows about these days and it was called the “clean break” and I am sure you have heard about it, or you may even helped writing it, don’t you think it is just saying what is happing these days in Lebanon.
Mr. President you lied to your people under the oath and now you are lying to the hall word under the effect of drugs, and we the Syrian people owns you an apologise.
Mr. President:
First of all I was so disappointed to read what you have written because I thought that you are one of few men in the united state how really care about the truth, and you belong to the people who are smart enough not to judge any one just because they think so.
I think any one in this word have the right to say that this country or that country did this or that just depending on what they feel, but you as a former president of the united state I don’t really think it is the best idea to judge any one and investigations are not done yet, or can you please tell me why Mr. Anan will send the fact finding group to Lebanon, spending all that time and money, why he just did not came to you and you can tell him the hole story since you know every thing Mr president.
Mr. President I am not writing this to defend the Syrian Government and all the big mistakes they did in Lebanon, but I just want to say that do you think that the Syrian will do such a stupid mistake and turn all the word against them just because ALHARERE want them out, or do you really think that the UN resolution 1559 was made in the last three or four months, and if yes so what the hell is all these talk from Israel, the said that it was a great victory and they worked on that resolution for more than three years. Another thing I would like to say is the paper that every one knows about these days and it was called the “clean break” and I am sure you have heard about it, or you may even helped writing it, don’t you think it is just saying what is happing these days in Lebanon.
Mr. President you lied to your people under the oath and now you are lying to the hall word under the effect of drugs, and we the Syrian people owns you an apologise.
Thank you Mr president for this great article.
In fact, understanding the fact that the syrian tyranical, minority rule is part of the big problem in the ME is most welcomed!
The syrian fascist regime wants to continue the fight against Israel at the expense of Lebanon.
The syrian regime has formed an evil axes in the ME with the participation of Iran and Hizbulla and terrorists in Iraq. Syria-Iran-Hizbulla-Iraq's terrorists are the new axis in the ME.
The syrian regime is supporting and encouraging terrorist groups who fight in Iraq, in West Bank/Gaza and now it backs proxies and its own secret services to destabilize Lebanon by sending car-bombs.
In one word, the syrian dictatorial regime revives on chaos, terror, inter-communal strifes, and the fake propaganda of leading the "struggle againts Israel".
If the USA and its leaders, starting with Mr Bush, want really to establish peace and democracy in the ME they should relentlessly work in coordination with positive and open-minded forces in the region to remove the syrian Baath regime, the twin brother of Saddam's regime.
Only then , you would have better chances to see a stable Iraq and a peaceful resolution to the Israelo-palestinian and Israelo-arab conflicts.
Thank you Mr president for this great article.
In fact, understanding the fact that the syrian tyranical, minority rule is part of the big problem in the ME is most welcomed!
The syrian fascist regime wants to continue the fight against Israel at the expense of Lebanon.
The syrian regime has formed an evil axes in the ME with the participation of Iran and Hizbulla and terrorists in Iraq. Syria-Iran-Hizbulla-Iraq's terrorists are the new axis in the ME.
The syrian regime is supporting and encouraging terrorist groups who fight in Iraq, in West Bank/Gaza and now it backs proxies and its own secret services to destabilize Lebanon by sending car-bombs.
In one word, the syrian dictatorial regime revives on chaos, terror, inter-communal strifes, and the fake propaganda of leading the "struggle againts Israel".
If the USA and its leaders, starting with Mr Bush, want really to establish peace and democracy in the ME they should relentlessly work in coordination with positive and open-minded forces in the region to remove the syrian Baath regime, the twin brother of Saddam's regime.
Only then , you would have better chances to see a stable Iraq and a peaceful resolution to the Israelo-palestinian and Israelo-arab conflicts.
Mr. President
I just want to say what a great man you are. I wish I had a friend like you. The hard day's of your illness did not stop you from sitting at an early morning hour and write down about your lost friend. I was so happy when I read what you wrote about Mr. Hariri and I respect you. I respect your true feeling. You said the truth and did not hide it like other people. We can only hide so much. But when a true friend is lost we have to speak up. People say Hariri was a a pro syrian. yeah it's true he had to be pro syrian to save Lebanon the country he lived and died for. It was the only way you can become a plotician in Lebanon, is to be a pro syria. I wish he waited a little more to show what he really thinks of Syria. He was a hero. God bless you MR. President.
Mr. President
I just want to say what a great man you are. I wish I had a friend like you. The hard day's of your illness did not stop you from sitting at an early morning hour and write down about your lost friend. I was so happy when I read what you wrote about Mr. Hariri and I respect you. I respect your true feeling. You said the truth and did not hide it like other people. We can only hide so much. But when a true friend is lost we have to speak up. People say Hariri was a a pro syrian. yeah it's true he had to be pro syrian to save Lebanon the country he lived and died for. It was the only way you can become a plotician in Lebanon, is to be a pro syria. I wish he waited a little more to show what he really thinks of Syria. He was a hero. God bless you MR. President.
Dear Mr. C from Montreal:
What do you think if you educate yourself a bit before posting on this particular mailing list? I think President Clinton's website should never get "infected" by the type of virus that you are!
Peter
Dear Mr. C from Montreal:
What do you think if you educate yourself a bit before posting on this particular mailing list? I think President Clinton's website should never get "infected" by the type of virus that you are!
Peter
My friend just told me this morning to read Mr President's letter about Hariri. I coudn't enjoy more knowing that there is a powerful man who's speaking so clearly and dirrectly to the point. It encourages all of us to do something, keep optimistic and to be strong. Thank you Mr. President!
It's just sad and disgusting that Syrian (and other terrorist supporting governments) distributed so many rubbish around the world to poison people's minds and to keep funding terrorism. It seems like "Mr C. from Montreal", being so "smart" and knowing the situation, writes dirrectly from canadian Hezbollah base (?!) Brainwashed people, killing mashines, with a poisoned heart and belief...
I wish Lebanon and Lebanese people best luck and know that you're not alone and it's your day!
My friend just told me this morning to read Mr President's letter about Hariri. I coudn't enjoy more knowing that there is a powerful man who's speaking so clearly and dirrectly to the point. It encourages all of us to do something, keep optimistic and to be strong. Thank you Mr. President!
It's just sad and disgusting that Syrian (and other terrorist supporting governments) distributed so many rubbish around the world to poison people's minds and to keep funding terrorism. It seems like "Mr C. from Montreal", being so "smart" and knowing the situation, writes dirrectly from canadian Hezbollah base (?!) Brainwashed people, killing mashines, with a poisoned heart and belief...
I wish Lebanon and Lebanese people best luck and know that you're not alone and it's your day!
Please help Lebanon as I Know that America is the strongest country in the world ,so dont let syria do that to my country {LEBANON}
Please help Lebanon as I Know that America is the strongest country in the world ,so dont let syria do that to my country {LEBANON}
Mr. President,
God bless you for this courageous posting. It is sad that the world and the Lebanese people waited long enough to claim their independence at a very high and expensive loss. Mr. Hariri's killing was the last straw that boke the camel's back. With the support of this administration and people with big heart like yours, Lebanon is soon to be a leading shining star of democracy, freedom and justice.
God Bless You.
Mr. President,
God bless you for this courageous posting. It is sad that the world and the Lebanese people waited long enough to claim their independence at a very high and expensive loss. Mr. Hariri's killing was the last straw that boke the camel's back. With the support of this administration and people with big heart like yours, Lebanon is soon to be a leading shining star of democracy, freedom and justice.
God Bless You.
Mr. President.
You have gained so much respect in my eyes. I did not know that you were so knowledgeable about Lebanon's plight.
If I was American, I would be proud that you served as President. There are still smart men out there, smart leaders.
God bless.
Mr. President.
You have gained so much respect in my eyes. I did not know that you were so knowledgeable about Lebanon's plight.
If I was American, I would be proud that you served as President. There are still smart men out there, smart leaders.
God bless.
Mr. President,
I write to you as a Republican but proud and speechless of your brave column about Lebanon.
You have gain after many years my deepest respects Mr. President.
I only wish you could have been able to implement what you are saying against dictators during your years in office.
God Bless America.
Mr. President,
I write to you as a Republican but proud and speechless of your brave column about Lebanon.
You have gain after many years my deepest respects Mr. President.
I only wish you could have been able to implement what you are saying against dictators during your years in office.
God Bless America.
To: Mr. C from Montreal
What are you talking about you Pro-Syrian dude. I'll see you dans les ruelles de M-T-L mayn.
To: Mr. C from Montreal
What are you talking about you Pro-Syrian dude. I'll see you dans les ruelles de M-T-L mayn.
Dear Mr. President,
I hope that the words you printed are truely yours. For the first time in Lebanon, we can see that the world is understanding our problem with the Syrians quite well. They are murderers and nothing but a mafiosi regime that is thriving on drugs that are planted in Lebanon. This Syrian regime is definitly responsible for planing and executing this horrible crime. They have indeed for the first time commited a crime that no matter what they do hide the evidence it would still lead to them. Bashar Assad is not his father! He is in control but is also quite stupid! I hope the people of Syria would realize and rise against this awfal totalitarian regime that has been oppressing the Syrians and the Lebanese for the last 30 years. They have been behind the war in Lebanon, they provided the arms, the atmosphere of mistrust, and have assasinated every human being that has demonstrated a will to fight them and expose them. The list of Martyrs include Kamal Jumblatt, President Bashir Gemayel, Grand Mufti Hassan Khaled, MP Nazem Al Kadri, President Renee Moawwad, and recently Prime Minister Rafik Hariri. Today the President of Lebanon Emile Lahoud is living in hiding and not staying at his palace because they have threatned him to force him to resign, so they can bring a new President that would serve them for the next six years. The current President Lahoud is not innocent and has commited many crimes, and embezzeled about 2Billion dollars from Iraq, from the money that Izzat Ibrahim Al Douri brought with him during the arab summit in Lebanon. The President is also responsible through his son in law the former minister of the interior on the attempt of MP Marwan Hemady. Mr. President Clinton what you have said or even what is published on the website is very close to the truth. The power of the people of Lebanon will continue to drive these dictators and mass murederers out of power and out of Lebanon and Syria so they can enjoy their freedom within the confines of the jails that they have erected, and the torture chambers that have used on their people. God Bless the People of Lebanon and the Free People of Syria
Dear Mr. President,
I hope that the words you printed are truely yours. For the first time in Lebanon, we can see that the world is understanding our problem with the Syrians quite well. They are murderers and nothing but a mafiosi regime that is thriving on drugs that are planted in Lebanon. This Syrian regime is definitly responsible for planing and executing this horrible crime. They have indeed for the first time commited a crime that no matter what they do hide the evidence it would still lead to them. Bashar Assad is not his father! He is in control but is also quite stupid! I hope the people of Syria would realize and rise against this awfal totalitarian regime that has been oppressing the Syrians and the Lebanese for the last 30 years. They have been behind the war in Lebanon, they provided the arms, the atmosphere of mistrust, and have assasinated every human being that has demonstrated a will to fight them and expose them. The list of Martyrs include Kamal Jumblatt, President Bashir Gemayel, Grand Mufti Hassan Khaled, MP Nazem Al Kadri, President Renee Moawwad, and recently Prime Minister Rafik Hariri. Today the President of Lebanon Emile Lahoud is living in hiding and not staying at his palace because they have threatned him to force him to resign, so they can bring a new President that would serve them for the next six years. The current President Lahoud is not innocent and has commited many crimes, and embezzeled about 2Billion dollars from Iraq, from the money that Izzat Ibrahim Al Douri brought with him during the arab summit in Lebanon. The President is also responsible through his son in law the former minister of the interior on the attempt of MP Marwan Hemady. Mr. President Clinton what you have said or even what is published on the website is very close to the truth. The power of the people of Lebanon will continue to drive these dictators and mass murederers out of power and out of Lebanon and Syria so they can enjoy their freedom within the confines of the jails that they have erected, and the torture chambers that have used on their people. God Bless the People of Lebanon and the Free People of Syria
Dear Bill,
Did it take the death of a billionnaire to hear you saying what you are saying about Syria, her economy, her status in Lebanon...Long time ago, exactly 16 years ago, a maronite GENERAL went live on TV and asked Syria to withdraw from Lebanon... He was considered a mad man...You (USA) let him down, with him you let down all the christians and the free Lebanese. He is coming back I hope you stand on his side this time,eventhough he is not a millionnaire even. He is our last hope for a FREE Lebanon, and(as an internet poker player myself) this is our last bet. By the way his name is Michel Aoun.
Dear Bill,
Did it take the death of a billionnaire to hear you saying what you are saying about Syria, her economy, her status in Lebanon...Long time ago, exactly 16 years ago, a maronite GENERAL went live on TV and asked Syria to withdraw from Lebanon... He was considered a mad man...You (USA) let him down, with him you let down all the christians and the free Lebanese. He is coming back I hope you stand on his side this time,eventhough he is not a millionnaire even. He is our last hope for a FREE Lebanon, and(as an internet poker player myself) this is our last bet. By the way his name is Michel Aoun.
I think that President Clinton is right. From this letter, I am convinced that he is well informed about the region and Lebanon/Syria in particular.
Hariri was not the first president assassinated by Syria; Syria killed the following Presidents over the years:
1982 Bashir Gemayel
1987 Rachid Karame
1989 Rene Moawad
Also, Syria eliminated (Killed or Jailed) over 200 Lebanese politicians during its 30 years dominance of Lebanon, and we should not forget journalists who were torture by acid and left to die a horrible death when they wrote against Syria. What did all the assassinated figures have in common: They all wanted Syria out, THEY WANTED THEIR INDEPENDENCE and FREEDOM.
Syria thought by eliminating Hariri, it will avoid the implementation of 1559, and it will be a lesson to everybody who would dare in the future stands for freedom.
It did not go as planned, Syria thought that Hariri will be killed like all previous Lebanese personalities and life goes on. Syria did not expect that the international community react as they did. Also the Lebanese people are fed up; they also stood for freedom encouraged by President Bush inauguration address.
Yes, Basher Assad order it, as he is a strong dictator and nobody dares to act in any way behind his back as they know the punishment is intolerable.
I am a Christian Lebanese that left Lebanon in 1984 after I realized that Syria’s totalitarism regime is going to be imposed on Lebanon. I never imagined that a day will come and Syria will be humiliated and forced to leave us alone, God bless George Bush and Jacques Chirac also God bless Harir’s soul.
I am hoping that an international investigation will put away all these criminals that dominated Lebanon for more that 30 years (Basher Assad and his officers, and Emile Lahoud and officers).
I think that President Clinton is right. From this letter, I am convinced that he is well informed about the region and Lebanon/Syria in particular.
Hariri was not the first president assassinated by Syria; Syria killed the following Presidents over the years:
1982 Bashir Gemayel
1987 Rachid Karame
1989 Rene Moawad
Also, Syria eliminated (Killed or Jailed) over 200 Lebanese politicians during its 30 years dominance of Lebanon, and we should not forget journalists who were torture by acid and left to die a horrible death when they wrote against Syria. What did all the assassinated figures have in common: They all wanted Syria out, THEY WANTED THEIR INDEPENDENCE and FREEDOM.
Syria thought by eliminating Hariri, it will avoid the implementation of 1559, and it will be a lesson to everybody who would dare in the future stands for freedom.
It did not go as planned, Syria thought that Hariri will be killed like all previous Lebanese personalities and life goes on. Syria did not expect that the international community react as they did. Also the Lebanese people are fed up; they also stood for freedom encouraged by President Bush inauguration address.
Yes, Basher Assad order it, as he is a strong dictator and nobody dares to act in any way behind his back as they know the punishment is intolerable.
I am a Christian Lebanese that left Lebanon in 1984 after I realized that Syria’s totalitarism regime is going to be imposed on Lebanon. I never imagined that a day will come and Syria will be humiliated and forced to leave us alone, God bless George Bush and Jacques Chirac also God bless Harir’s soul.
I am hoping that an international investigation will put away all these criminals that dominated Lebanon for more that 30 years (Basher Assad and his officers, and Emile Lahoud and officers).
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