Great commentary in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram (req. reg.) noting that for the first time, the Arab street is blaming its problems on their autocratic leaders, rather than Israel or American interference:
For possibly the first time since 1948, since the creation of the state of Israel, an Arab government’s principal — indispensable — method for manipulating and controlling its people has stopped working. The well-known political sleight of hand consists of deflecting popular anger against the regime by shifting attention and blame onto an outside enemy: Israel.
The trick always worked — until now. This is no small development….
Imagine the surprise of the governments in Beirut and Damascus when, after their cries of “Israel and the U.S. did it!,” the masses did not immediately reach for Israeli and American flags to light their bonfires. They simply refused to take the bait.
Does Hezbollah get it?
(Hat tip: James Taranto)
