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Early thoughts on the demise of Bin Laden.

Its 7.20am on Monday morning. I would like to think that I am more awake than the PM appeared to be a few minutes ago. These are my early thoughts: none original I'm sure.

1- this is more a symbolic act than a blow to AQ's operational capacity.
2- a 911 survivor says this bit best: "I just can’t find it in me to be glad one more person is dead, even if it is Osama bin Laden." She has the right to say what I hope many more people will feel.
3- the politicians are doing well in their reaction thus far (apart from the inflammatory tweets of an inconsequential Tory MP, Louise Bagshaw wind your neck in before you start calling Pakistan to account.. way above your pay grade)
4- lets hope the frat party antics outside the White House calm down. They are ill advised. There's something profoundly immature about celebrating like that after so many civilian deaths in pursuit of this one. They will be counterproductive.. but for now I think we can put it down to the US not having a Royal Wedding to become gushy about. That sounds fascetious and I will say more later in the day about the sense of relief this must bring to the US.
5- it could get worse before it gets better. The wise people (including the State Dept) are very aware that more attacks could come to pass. How the USA and other Western states handle this is crucial.
6- the next months of consequence will define the presidential campaign. Barack Obama was particularly snippy at the Correspondents dinner last week.. and right his political advisers will be joyous. But its fragile.
7- this could be a defining moment for the global economy- I think confidence boosts in a mass market like the US could have big implications.
8- I have NO idea how this plays out for the protest movements that are happening around the Arab world right now.
9- The marine who has leaked photos already should be court martialled.
10- Bin Laden's body should be released asap so that he can have the dignity of a culturally appropriate funeral. The US has 'won' and it falls on winners to show dignity, magnanimity and compassion.

I think thats it for now. We pray on..

Comments

Lauren Newman said…
Good thoughts. I particularly liked 2,4 & 10. Keen to hear more!!

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