News and Opinions - Blog Chow

This is one of the more rational writeups you’re gonna see from a modern day Hollywood person. I’m not sure Angelina Jolie actually wrote it herself, but since she’s willing to take credit for it, I’ll give her the benefit of the doubt. Some of the things she said flies in the face of what a lot of the Hollywood Anti-Americans have said relentlessly in the past, so the contrast is why I’m writing about it.

I don’t necessarily agree with every word in her article, such as calling terrorist Syria good hosts to Iraqi refugees, but I won’t argue about the fine print…

Angelina Jolie Quotes about Iraq:

Today’s humanitarian crisis in Iraq — and the potential consequences for our national security — are great. Can the United States afford to gamble that 4 million or more poor and displaced people, in the heart of Middle East, won’t explode in violent desperation, sending the whole region into further disorder?

As for the question of whether the surge is working, I can only state what I witnessed: U.N. staff and those of non-governmental organizations seem to feel they have the right set of circumstances to attempt to scale up their programs. And when I asked the troops if they wanted to go home as soon as possible, they said that they miss home but feel invested in Iraq. They have lost many friends and want to be a part of the humanitarian progress they now feel is possible.

It seems to me that now is the moment to address the humanitarian side of this situation. Without the right support, we could miss an opportunity to do some of the good we always stated we intended to do.

George Clooney also seemed to have a rare moment of reality when he questioned the results of his own efforts on Darfur. This is why just being nice and throwing money at a problem like this isn’t the answer. There are violent, heartless people in the world, and the only way to help those who are suffering is to also deal with those who are committing the evil acts. Food, water and supplies have very limited effect when they are destroyed. They actually help those responsible for the atrocities when they are stolen, not to mention that these things are of no help if you are murdered…

George Clooney Darfur Quote:

I’ve been very depressed since I got back. I’m terrified that it isn’t in any way helping. That bringing attention can cause more damage. You dig a well or build a health-care facility and they’re a target for somebody. A lot more people know about Darfur, but absolutely nothing is different. Absolutely nothing.”

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Blog Chow Comment: Sgt. Wayne Leyde stopped by the convenience for a Coke and a beef jerky. He walked out with a million dollar lotto ticket. He’s served twice in Iraq and he is still volunteering for a 3rd tour before spending any of his winnings. That is dedication and belief in what he is doing.