@Irishk,
True enough, but the world and other nations don't accept responsibility for the contradictions that lie among their various words and actions. That was my basic objection to those here who earlier demanded instant action by the supposed "international community" (it may be international but it surely is no community) to relieve ther suffering of the Libyan people at the hands of a tyrant they have endured for over forty years.
The cynical action of a very well armed Arab league in first calling for the establishment of a UN enforced no fly zome over Libya, but which then failed almost completely to lift even a finger to impose it ... and later expressed horror that someone might actually have to fire a shot to do so .. . all tells the story quite well.
I'm sure that our President has good intentions in all this, as very likely do the UK and France. Unfortunately good intentions don't necessarily make for actions that are either wise or effective. I made the point earlier about the prevailing cynicism and lack of gratitude in the world for actions we have (not always wisely) taken to limit dangers to ourselves and others, and noted that, in my view, the Libyan problem was not worth the cost to us. I also suggested that the world needs an example of American indifference to help it better recognize its own responsibilities and the difficulties that inevitably attend constructive action.
I'm quite sure that these and other considerations were well-known to all the key people in the Administration, including the President himself. They have said what they have said and done what they have done, leaving us all with more than a little confusion about what they really mean and what they will do. Indeed, as you noted, key Administration officials such as Secretary Gates, and earlier Secretary Clinton have made public statements that have added to the confusion and speculation, creating the impression of indecision, confusion, and possible discord within the government. Some level of this stuff always occurs, but what we are seeing now, given the intrinsic fluidity and uncertainty prevailing in the "coalition" we have joined is truly worrisome. Both we and the Libyan people appear now to be in a worse situation than what appears likely had we done (and said) nothing at all.
Critics of the President lay almost all of this result on his poor leadership. I believe that is an exaggeration in that the international siutuation itself doesn't permit much clarity. However, it would be very difficult to make the case that he has acknowledged these limitations and contradictions, done anything to lay them at the feet of those responsible or even outlined a clear path for the country he leads.
