8/30/2013

Free Write 1 - Reactions to Sec. Kerry's remarks on Syria

I just finished watching the Secretary of State's address regarding the issue in Syria, live on the State Department's website. In a short recap, days ago the Syrian President Bashar al-Assad (allegedly) launched poison missiles on Syrian rebel controlled areas killing thousands of innocent civilians in the process. This issue has been at the forefront of many arguments internationally, with many countries debating how to appropriately react.

Secretary Kerry outlined compelling evidence that showcased reason to believe that the missiles were, in fact, launched by the Syrian Regime. He also presented compelling case as to why the United States must get involved. Secretary Kerry emphasized that we, collectively, must take action against such heinous acts in the global community. It is the right thing to do and that how we respond matters deeply to the credibility and future interest of the United States.

Secretary Kerry make a strong point. As an international superpower we must be able to take a stand against moral atrocities such as this. We must be able to help our allies in the same way we would expect them to help us. Many of our allies are and could be impacted by the use of chemical warfare from Syria. Naturally, this is a morally and politically complex issue that deserves to be discussed and approached in the best possible manner.

This issue is also a prime example of the important work that the State Department deals with and although the issue itself is deeply disturbing from a moral standpoint, I'm excited to be interning with the State Department during such a crucial time period for the United States and the global community.

3 comments:

  1. It is unfortunate that such disgusting acts are being displayed in Syria right now but I would agree that this is an exciting time to work for the State Department when such a large issue is taking place globally. Of course I agree that this disaster is immoral however I do not want to see the U.S. enter another war. My opinion is a bit biased as I do have a sister in the military.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I would agree that the situation in Syria is filled with moral and ethical issues, and the United States is in a pivotal point in the decision process regarding whether to take action or not to take action. It is true that as an international superpower, the United States is perhaps faced with the responsibility of drawing a line in the sand and saying enough is enough when push comes to shove. On the other hand, has it become too commonplace for the U.S. to interfere in foreign conflicts? Will getting involved really be beneficial to us down the road? One thing is for sure, I am glad these decisions are not up to me. I am somewhat torn on my standpoint regarding which direction we should take on this one, however, I hope whichever route we take is the right one.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Thank you for making a neutral but informative post. I, like Nick, am also town on my standpoint regarding which action to take. I am interested to know what the atmosphere at the State Department at this time is like. Are tensions high? Is there a definite side the State Department feels that American should be taking? Or is it also torn on what actions to take, like me? So many questions I know, but you definitely are involved in quite an interesting internship!

    ReplyDelete