A very wise observation !
I think some of the pressure on the present administration to react on Mousavi’s behalf was created by folks who (a)didn’t do their homework; or (b)hoped against hope the administration WOULD back Mousavi, so they could pull the rug out with a “Obama-Backs-Tyrant Mousavi !” theme.
It’s also interesting that some of the folks who want us to express “solidarity” with the Iranian people are the same ones who want us to bomb the bejabbers out of them.
The old saying: “Measure twice-cut once” is still worth keeping in mind.
Great points for sure. You and wiseprince are speaking words that need speaking, but I would try and answer you this way:
1. The history of these kids of revolutions shows that they often start out one way and end up another, so the assertion the the other guy is no better than the current guy is valid, but not an absolute indicator of where this thing might end up. (you can’t win unless you play)
2. The moment the dictator is shown to have no clothes, he’s finished. If the people win here, they are more likely to win next time they take to the streets - maybe to overthrow the mullahs. If they lose, they lose for another 30-years.
3. Even if the other guy is no better, nothing has been lost and the people empowered.
Its not perfect, but we should not make perfect the enemy of (potentially) better. The ultimate goal is freedom for Iran. I think the kids out in the street know that, as do many of their supporters here in this country. If they can roll the government now, they can and will roll them in the future.
Anyway, that’s my best shot at trying to present a different side to your discussion.