Blog 5

I found an article from CNN that discussed the United States recent aid towards rebels in Syria. The aid, consists of only food and medical supplies, which is noble but perhaps a bit futile. The conflict has been going on for two years and has claimed more than 60,000 lives. This is why the aid ($60 million worth) is being provided, according to Secretary of State, John Kerry. He then said that that the aid would help fighters in their effort to topple Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

The Syrian Civil War started as a result for the desire to oust the Ba’ath Party government and the 30-plus year presidency of the al-Assad family. The conflict began March 15, 2011, with nationwide demonstrations, as part of the wider protest movement known as Arab Spring. Protesters demanded the resignation of President al-Assad.

My inquiry, regarding the aid being provided to the rebels by the United States, is if international efforts are to be made in assisting the rebels, would only supplying medical aid and food shorten the length of the civil war, or prolong it?

The Ba’ath Party government and the rebel forces have been at a stalemate for two years now. While providing food and medical aid is an obvious moral cause, it seems futile if further military aid is not given.

http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/28/world/meast/syria-us-funds/index.html?hpt=wo_bn2

Clyde Lovelady
Blog 5
3/6 8:59 pm