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Just Watch the Right Distort Obama’s Guantanamo/al-Qaeda Remarks

President Obama, just now: We will close Guantanamo prison, which has damaged our national security interests and has become a tremendous recruiting tool for

Jul 31, 2020
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President Obama, just now:
We will close Guantanamo prison, which has damaged our national security interests and has become a tremendous recruiting tool for al-Qaeda. In fact, that was an explicit rationale for the formation of al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula.
My Twitterborne friends Eli Lakeof The Washington Timesand Michael Goldfarbof TheWeekly Standardimmediately made the inferential jump that, as Goldfarb wrote, “So al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula wouldn’t exist if it wasn’t for Gitmo? Does anyone actually believe that?” But there’s a difference between saying that al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula claims Guantanamo as a rationale and saying that Guantanamo is the reason al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula exists. Just as there’s a difference between facts and the fact of al-Qaeda’s propaganda — which has to be interpreted by asking the question, “Why would this argument find currency among angry Muslims?”
Twitterer @Othercorner putit rather well:
sigh. Not that complicated. Gitmo doesn’t cause terror. It does increase Muslim populations’ sympathy for AQ… Propaganda against US. So closing it deprives AQ of a propaganda cudgel against us.
I expect other conservatives who are far more hackish than Lake and Goldfarb won’t appreciate the difference, though.
Camilo Wood

Camilo Wood

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Camilo Wood has over two decades of experience as a writer and journalist, specializing in finance and economics. With a degree in Economics and a background in financial research and analysis, Camilo brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his writing. Throughout his career, Camilo has contributed to numerous publications, covering a wide range of topics such as global economic trends, investment strategies, and market analysis. His articles are recognized for their insightful analysis and clear explanations, making complex financial concepts accessible to readers. Camilo's experience includes working in roles related to financial reporting, analysis, and commentary, allowing him to provide readers with accurate and trustworthy information. His dedication to journalistic integrity and commitment to delivering high-quality content make him a trusted voice in the fields of finance and journalism.
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