Interesting. The pillars did not collapse. Looks like the fireball did most of the damage. What goes around comes around. And if history is to be a predictor, Obama may soon learn that lesson.
Yes, I agree with your points.
In an underreported news item, a Turkish officer was killed fighting with unidentified militants at the Syrian/Turkish border, a few weeks ago. This is probably because they are trying to prevent some elements of the FSA from crossing freely into Turkey.
Ergodan has been sheltering wild dogs, and ought to expect to get bit.