Patrick Seale
Patrick Seale
Patrick Abram Sealewas a Belfast-born British journalist and author who specialised in the Middle East. A former correspondent for The Observer, he interviewed many Middle Eastern leaders and personalities. Seale was also a literary agent and art dealer...
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For the first time since he came to power in 2000, he has a unique chance to impose his authority on rival power centers and emerge as the real ruler of Syria,
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Assad did not want the political order in the Middle East (to be) dominated by Israel, ... He wanted a balance of power in order to keep the peace. He felt an imbalance causes war because the stronger partner always tries to impose his will on the weaker.
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If he doesn't do it, then his country will face sanctions and become very vulnerable. If he does do it, then he will immediately get international support. The crucial question is whether he has the support of the military chiefs.
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Perhaps the most extraordinary thing about him was his remarkable consistency. The outside world so often said he was a mystery man, but nothing could be further from the truth. He always made his position clear.
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We have to note that the regime continues to control the army and security services, the Syrian opposition is very weak and America is bogged down in Iraq,