The Foreign Service Journal, October 2004

unwavering, bipartisan support for the government of Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon. But they are alert for signs that the Broader Middle East and North Africa Initiative, backed by the European Union and other industrialized powers, will eventually come to fruition. Betting the other way, Osama bin Laden’s al-Qaida terrorist organization is said to be preparing major attacks on U.S. soil, possibly on the eve of the November elections, in an attempt to repeat the success of its March bombing in Madrid, which appears to have precipitated the ruling party’s defeat. They are also reportedly working with local insurgents and supporters of former dictator Saddam Hussein, in the belief that America cannot tolerate too many casualties among its forces, and would thus vote against the administration that put these troops in harm’s way. If that is true, then for the first time since World War II, foreign countries and extremist groups have become players in the U.S. presidential elections, with most external forces hoping for a “regime change” that would alter the global dynamic that started on Sept. 11, 2001. Like Americans themselves, then, Arabs are divided between those who believe they’re better off with a sec- ond Bush administration and those who prefer a Democratic president, with those favoring a change in the majority. But they all know that whoever will occupy the White House next will play a major role in reshaping the future of the Middle East, for better or worse. American success in establishing an Arab democracy in the Middle East could help spread reform and democra- tization in the entire region. In contrast, a failure of the American reconstruction and stabilization of Iraq would give rise to the dark forces of extremism who are now active in trying to abort the U.S. effort. It would also encourage undemocratic regimes throughout the region to stand firm in resisting pressure to liberalize. All this makes the American presidential election this year the most important in many years for the people and governments of the Middle East. F O C U S 22 F O R E I G N S E R V I C E J O U R N A L / O C T O B E R 2 0 0 4 Home Suite Home The next time you’re going to be in DC for an extended stay, make yourself at home at Georgetown Suites. With our discounted monthly rates and large, comfortable suites, you’ll feel right at home. Plus we’re near the State Department. Call today! Georgetown Suites the fun place to stay in DC 1-800-348-7203 www.georgetownsuites.com sales@georgetownsuites.com