[Fudd]

My point is that with many of these regimes we not only did not support them, we wanted them gone even at the highth of the Cold War. So to say that we supported them is a lie.

I agree with you on this in regards to many of the ME nations. Egypt, Iraq, Syria, post-rev Iran, were all client states to the Soviets during the Cold War. However, my point still remains that we support, to varying degrees, nondemocratic regimes: Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, pre-rev Iran, and Pakistan come to mind. With the end of the Cold War and aftermath of 911, we need to re-evaluate our alliances with these nations. I'm old enough to remember the Iranians storming the embassy gates after the Shah left Iran.

Counterpoint, ... which was a better government for Iran, the monarchy or the Ayatollahs?

My hope is that Iran can find for itself a better government than either of these choices.

[Harmless Teddy Bear]

My hope is that Iran can find for itself a better government than either of these choices.

Hope springs eternal. But who did they have the better chance with for that better government?

You know and I know the answer. Even if the french don't.