Puppetmaster forever?

Is the United States the puppet master of the world?

It seems that way today. With every country following what seem to be simple suggestions that fit the agenda of the United States without actually having to come from them. A perfect example is in this article, “Western officials have long believed that North Waziristan is the single most important haven for militants…” is a subtle way of telling Pakistan that there is a threat on their own land and in order for Pakistan and the United States to become allies, they must first deal with this threat. Perhaps it is because the United States views the militants inhabiting this area as a threat to their power and standing with the rest of the world that they feel the need to create these radical viewpoints.

One thing that stands out to me is that many of the areas that the United States views as a threat to them or inhabited by militants tend to be in or around tribal areas. Tribal peoples are generally not a threat to anyone unless a wrong has been committed against their people. Often times the only fighting they do is to fight back. Perhaps it is the lack of development that allows the United States to view these people as a threat, but in all honesty, without development and expansion how are they even going to be able to fight back against the United States. Maybe if they got together with these militant groups, but then the United States would have to commit a crime against them.

Pulling the puppet strings, trying to make yourself and your country more powerful is not the correct way to command a country. Often time’s citizens of the United States say that President Bush was the man that “ruined” our image, but perhaps it is the lack of change that gives President Obama this honor. We should try to silence our government in matters that do not pertain to the safety of our citizens or soldiers. Often this is the area in which we get in trouble. International relations will never be continuous or civil if we do not make a point to stay out of other people’s business. This is why President Obama was elected. On a platform of change, and change he has not delivered.