To the Point
Is President Obama Too 'Passive' in Foreign Affairs?
In Egypt, Syria and Iran, is President Obama conducting a "passive foreign policy" or being realistic about this country's influence in the Middle East?
By Warren Olney • • 51m ListenEgypt's ruling generals have thumbed their noses at the US; there's been almost no American help to rebels in Syria. And Iran's new President is getting the cold shoulder despite evidence that he wants to talk. Is President Obama conducting a "passive foreign policy" or being realistic about this country's influence in the Middle East? Also, tallying a weekend of violence in Egypt, and sexual harassment and politics in San Diego.
Banner image; Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel (L) walks with Egyptian Minister of Defense Abdel Fatah Saeed Al-Sisi in Cairo, on April 24, 2013. DoD photo by Erin Kirk-Cuomo
In this episode
3 storiesTallying a Weekend of Violence in Egypt
Egypt's ruling generals have admitted that 36 Islamists were killed while in custody in the past few days. The government has justified detaining and killing leaders of the Muslim Brotherhood by calling them "terrorists." There have, in fact, been attacks on Coptic Christian churches.
Read the story8 minIs President Obama Too 'Passive' in Foreign Affairs?
President Obama is accused of standing by as Egypt's generals deposed an elected government and killed almost 1000 opponents both in the streets and in custody. Promised aid to Syrian rebels has not materialized, months after Obama's demand that President al-Assad step down.
Read the story35 minSan Diego Mayor Bob Filner Not Leaving Anytime Soon
"Bob is stubborn and he likes to fight." That's what one political consultant says about San Diego Mayor Bob Filner. He's been accused by 16 women of unwelcome sexual advances; one has sued him in court. A unanimous City Council has demanded that he resign and a recall campaign is underway.
Read the story8 min
