opa-opines.net

The “troop surge” in Iraq is a “success”, at least as the media increasingly claims, especially the 24 hour news channels. Aren’t we a bit surprised?

Looking for the definition of success can be frustrating.   Is the surge successful because Iraqi has made significant progress toward establishing a functional democratic government?   Is the surge successful because Iraq now has a peaceful, secure relationship with her neighbors?   Is it successful because human rights have been guaranteed to all those who live in Iraq?   Or is it successful because the country has been rebuilt and the utilities and economy reestablished?

Since the answer to all the above is no, then what possible reason could our media have for declaring “success”.  The only claim for success that is clearly verified is that the U.S. Military is more secure and the incidents of violence have decreased.  But, of course, Iraq is not as “secure” as it was before the United States Military invaded Iraq, and we do not really know if the violence is lower now than it was during Saddam’s days in power.

So, dear media, give us a break from your personal opinion. And please stop harassing the current candidates for President on this issue.   Stop the loaded questions like “what should your opponent’s position be on the surge.”   Why not tell the total unvarnished truth – whatever the facts happen to be.   Drop the “spin” and simply report the news.