Who Profits from Middle East Instability?


Q. (SI) Who is profiting from the unstable situation in the Middle
East?

A. (Mazin B. Qumiyeh) Several groups:

1) The arms industry. The US is the largest exporter of weapons in the
world and 60 per cent of our exports go to the Middle East.

2) The oil industry. Less US involvement could spell an end to
dependence on oil, development of alternative energy sources and energy
conservation.

3) Think-tanks and their employees in Washington. No less than 24 such
groups receive significant funding from special interests ranging from
oil and military industries to lobbies for Israel.

4) Many Zionist leaders. Some get significant attention, hefty lecture
fees and adulation. Collectively, they can maintain the Jewish
character of Israel and avoid needed democratic reforms, separation of
state and religion, and uncontrolled economic development.

5) Religious zealots (whether Christian, Jewish or Muslim) who believe
in doomsday scenarios. These zealots ignore clear admonitions in their
religions calling for mercy, love and respect for others. The fanatical
Jewish colonizers/settlers in Hebron are a good example of this, as is
Osama bin Laden.

6) Many Arab leaders. A resolution could take away the only crutch left
for their dictatorial powers, which benefit immensely from lucrative
oil and arms deals and which distract their constituents from local
problems.