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JOE KLEIN, Time Magazine |
The Next War in Iraq
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In actual fact, it is just good journalism. It is nothing spectacular, does not set the world on fire. It presents some facts, dispels some myths, states opinion on what the future holds without pulling punches and without resorting to scare tactics. In a normal world it probably would not merit a second glance. But in this world of name calling, accusations of treason, and dire predictions (e.g., "they will follow us home") and inflammatory rhetoric ("killing fields", "bloodbath"), it is refreshing to read something that is not overtly trying to pursuade you of something - just giving you the benefit of some insight. Joe Klein does that frequently. This is his second award, but several of his other pieces are meritorious as well. Go here to browse some of the older ones. |
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Link Excerpts:
"The final outcome will depend on the Shi'ites fighting it out. There's little the U.S. can do but stand by" "We've learned an important lesson in Anbar province: the Islamic-extremist message is a loser. Most Muslims do not want to live without music, television and, especially, tobacco." "The next leader of Iraq and the shape of the next Iraqi government and its armed forces will probably be determined by how the Sadr-Hakim battle turns out, as will the decision about how or whether to reconcile with the Sunnis. The Kurds will prefer the aristocratic Hakims to the populist Sadrs, and so will we. But aristocrats seldom win battles of this sort; a strongman who is no fan of democracy or the West might emerge. In any case, the choice will be made by the Iraqis, not us." * * * |
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Award: Joe
Klein, Time Magazine Commentary The
Next War in Iraq
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