In Arab Spring, Obama Finds a Sharp Test

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/25/us/politics/arab-spring-proves-a-harsh-test-for-obamas-diplomatic-skill.html

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: barry levine 
Date: Tue, Sep 25, 2012 at 9:47 AM
Subject: re: In Arab Spring, Obama Finds a Sharp Test
To: letters@nytimes.com


To the Editor:

    Every U.S. president within memory has faced choices between an untidy relationship with a popular foreign government and a handy strongman.  Too often, we have backed a Shah, a Marcos, a Pinochet...and turned a blind eye to violations of human rights.  In Egypt, Tunisia and Libya this year president Obama is on the right side of history. That should count for something even as we weather a new season of anti-American protests across the region.

Barry Haskell Levine