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November 3rd, 2023
Colonial legacy, wealth, and fossil diplomacy
Throughout history, the idea of a unified Arab state has constantly captured the imagination of scholars, politicians, and the general population alike. The prospect of unity among Arab nations has enormous significance, rooted in a complex web of cultural, political, and historical factors.
Central to this view is the influential role played by T.E. Lawrence, known as Lawrence of Arabia, and the British Empire in shaping the modern landscape of the Middle East, particularly Turkey, Syria, and Iraq.
This decisive period at the beginning of the 20th century laid the foundation for contemporary discussions around the unification of Arab states. Exploring the meaning of a unified Arab state reveals a multifaceted story, rich with historical depth, rich natural resources, and geopolitical implications.
Could a united Arab state potentially create a stable political entity, capable of addressing common challenges and conflicts in the region after the two world wars?
As is well known, political stability contributes to economic growth, attracts investment, and strengthens the region’s global influence, creating a formidable force in international contexts.
By pooling resources and expertise, a united (Arab) state would address pressing issues such as poverty, education, health care, and infrastructure development, raising the quality of life for its citizens. The region is a superpower, if you convert the availability of gas and oil into hard currency.
What was the goal of Israel’s agreement with Saudi Arabia and Benjamin Netanyahu’s play on ”the new Middle East”?
Was it the same thought that you yourself, and others, lived under for many years, a state subject to the British Empire that controlled the development in Syria, Iraq, and in what today is called Israel, Lebanon, and Palestine?
A united Arab state could act as a balancing force in the Middle East, promoting peaceful coexistence and diplomacy among neighboring countries. By resolving historical disputes and promoting cooperation, the region can focus on common goals such as environmental sustainability, counter-terrorism efforts, and regional development projects.
Geopolitical stability in the Middle East is critical to global peace and security, making a united Arab state an important component of international diplomacy and conflict resolution efforts. But are these values overshadowed by what is hidden under land and water in the form of enormous fossil resources and at the same time are these riches that powerful men want to access by using religion and terror as a cover ever since they were first discovered?
Historical context:
The early 20th century witnessed the emergence of new political configurations in the Middle East, mainly orchestrated by figures such as T.E. Lawrence and imperial powers such as the British Empire. Lawrence’s involvement in the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire during World War I left an indelible mark on the region’s political landscape.
In the aftermath of the war, the Sykes-Picot Agreement (1916) between Britain and France demarcated spheres of influence in the Middle East, leading to the creation of artificial borders that disregarded ethnic, religious, and tribal affiliations. The League of Nations gave mandates to these colonial powers, formalizing their control over territories such as Syria and Iraq.
Lawrence’s expertise in Arab affairs and his collaboration with Arab leaders significantly influenced the outcome of the post-war settlements. In 1916 he played a decisive role in the Arab Revolt, supporting Arab nationalists in their quest for independence from Ottoman rule. Lawrence’s efforts, along with the military and diplomatic strategies of the British Empire, led to the establishment of nation-states such as Syria and Iraq.
But the manner in which these states were created, often without regard to the region’s societal complexities, sowed the seeds of discord that continue to affect the region to this day. The arbitrary boundaries drawn by the colonial powers neglected tribal affiliations and cultural nuances, resulting in enduring tensions and conflicts within and between nations.
In conclusion, the vision of a united Arab state has profound implications, both in terms of regional stability and global harmony. Learning from the historical intricacies of the Middle East, particularly the actions of individuals such as T.E. Lawrence and the Politics of the British Empire, offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with the pursuit of Arab unity.
By recognizing cultural richness, addressing historical injustices, and promoting diplomatic cooperation, the dream of a united Arab state can be turned into a tangible reality, bringing prosperity and peace to the region and the world at large.
August 15th, 2023
An absent leader makes a fragile nation
Sweden is currently navigating difficult and murky waters. The government is under the influence of a party, forged in the Nazi-white supremacy hearth. Indications point to connections between Russia and supporters of ”The Sweden Democrats (SD)” when Quran burnings are concerned further exposing Sweden as a weak nation in the ongoing and delicate NATO negotiations with Turkiye and Hungary.
Furthermore, the Muslim states (O.I.C) now consider Sweden as a threat to their ways.
In a world where presence, responsibility, and respect form the pillars of solid leadership, the need for transparency and insight emerges as an indispensable dimension. It is no longer enough to merely represent professions characterized by high demands on ethics and morality.
Political intrigue has woven its web around the core of leadership, and it is time to shed light on the shadowy corners: presence, responsibility, and respect:
Being present as a leader is not only a physical presence but also a moral closeness to those you represent. Doctors and lawyers are examples of professions where actions are synonymous with duty.
But in a world marked by manipulation, power struggles, and when the country is threatened and large parts are submerged due to climate change leaders can’t go on a three-day hike as Ulf Kristersson decided, not keeping his office or opposition updated.
The demand for responsibility and respect extends beyond traditional definitions. It’s about being a role model, wearing a mantle of integrity that protects from political storms. When faced with both inner and outer peril, the nation must be able to rely on elected leaders. When a country stands without a leader, prime minister, or deputy prime minister the democratic foundation is severely compromised.
(Picture: Swedish PM, Ulf Kristersson+ wife/priest Birgitta Ed, Abisko 230810-230813.)
Insisting on transparency is not an attack on leadership, but a reminder that power should not be exercised without accountability to those who have given trust.
Transparency is the glue that holds society together. Citizens have the right to know what happens behind the scenes, and to gain insight into the decisions that shape their lives. Without transparency, trust is eroded, and the gap between leaders and citizens deepens.
The corridors of power are festooned with seductive threads of political intrigue. It is a dangerous dance where every step can be decisive for survival or destruction. In these complex games, it is transparency and control that force the shadows into the light. Those responsible for leading the country should not be able to hide in obscurity without consequence.
Elected leaders and those who decide the direction of a nation, as part of the government majority might reconsider their unauthorized absence of leave to throw a ”Hawaii party” as the Islands now face a new historical tragedy, similar to previously experienced, in December 1941.
(Picture showing party leader of SD, Jimmie Åkesson, Instagram 230814)
Neither should chairman Richard Jomshof (DoJ) encourage further personal provocations outside a foreign nations embassy on Swedish soil as per the code of conduct he signed to uphold as a member of the Swedish Parliament.
Header picture:
Ulf Kristersson, Swedish prime minister / Björn Söder, head of Swedish delegation at OSCE / Richard Jomshof, chairman of the Department of Justice and Jimmie Åkesson, the party leader for ”The Sweden Democrats”
Footnote:
The government office defines presence and absence as: A cabinet minister or member of Parliament is in principle always assumed to be in office. Ministers of State are not employees and therefore have no statutory right to leave or vacation in the same way as employees.
Specific leave, however, may be granted by the speaker of the Parliament for, a maximum of one month.