cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/23861196

Generated Summary of Video Below:

Video Description:

Amy Goodman (Democracy Now!) interviews Retired General Wesley Clark. Clark talks about his opposition to a U.S. attack on Iran; the impeachment of President Bush; the use of cluster bombs; the bombing of Radio Television Serbia in the Kosovo War under his command; U.S. service members refusing deployments to Iraq. (3-2-2007)

Generated Summary:

U.S. Military Actions and Iran

  • General Wesley Clark discusses the potential for a U.S. attack on Iran, drawing parallels to the lead-up to the Iraq War, particularly the allegations of weapons of mass destruction.
  • Clark expresses concern that history may repeat itself, noting that Iran was a more significant threat compared to Iraq, a point he made during his congressional testimony in 2002.
  • He recounts a conversation shortly after 9/11 when military officials indicated a decision had already been made to go to war with Iraq, despite lacking evidence linking Saddam Hussein to al-Qaeda.
  • Clark reveals that a memo he saw outlined plans to take out seven countries, including Iran, within five years, highlighting a broader strategy beyond Iraq.
  • He elaborates on Iran’s perception of U.S. presence in Iraq as both a threat and a blessing, as it removed Saddam but also made them feel vulnerable.
  • Clark indicates that Iran has engaged in building its influence in Iraq, providing military assistance to insurgents and militias, which complicates the situation further.
  • He emphasizes that while military action is an option, it should be a last resort, advocating for dialogue instead of confrontation.

Pentagon Planning and Covert Operations

  • Clark discusses a report by Seymour Hersh indicating that the Pentagon has established a special planning group to prepare for a bombing attack on Iran.
  • He highlights the involvement of Saudi Arabia in funding covert operations to strengthen Sunni groups in the Middle East, which includes supporting jihadist factions against Iranian-backed Shia forces.
  • The conversation touches on the implications of U.S. withdrawal from Iraq, suggesting that a power vacuum could lead to the rise of extremist groups like al-Qaeda.
  • Clark warns that early withdrawal could inadvertently empower Sunni extremists and destabilize the region further.

Military Leadership and Morality

  • The discussion shifts to the moral responsibilities of military leaders, with Clark recalling a time when generals faced ethical dilemmas regarding military interventions.
  • He reflects on the importance of asking moral and ethical questions before engaging in military action, highlighting a historical context where military decisions led to unnecessary loss of life.
  • Clark expresses encouragement for military leaders who question the legality and morality of current operations, emphasizing that such scrutiny is vital for responsible leadership.

Conscientious Objectors and War Legality

  • The conversation includes a mention of soldiers refusing deployment to Iraq, particularly focusing on First Lieutenant Ehren Watada, who declared the war illegal and immoral.
  • Clark acknowledges the courage of such refusals but also stresses the need for discipline within the armed forces to ensure operational effectiveness.
  • He distinguishes between legal and moral objections to war, stating that while the Iraq War is authorized, it is strategically misguided.

Guantanamo Bay and Military Commissions

  • Clark advocates for the closure of Guantanamo Bay, arguing that it undermines American values and legal principles.
  • He calls for the repeal of the Military Commissions Act, expressing concern over the use of evidence obtained through torture in military trials.
  • Clark emphasizes the need for a cooperative international approach to counter-terrorism, arguing that military force should be a last resort.

Impeachment and Accountability

  • Clark discusses the possibility of impeaching President George W. Bush, suggesting that the focus should first be on understanding the intelligence failures that led to the Iraq War.
  • He expresses frustration over the lack of investigation into the administration’s use of intelligence to justify the war, emphasizing the need for accountability.
  • Clark touches on the implications of war crimes, indicating that there should be consequences for individuals responsible for unlawful military actions.

Military Strategy and Cluster Bombs

  • Clark reflects on the use of cluster bombs during military operations, acknowledging their effectiveness but stressing the need for careful control and regulation.
  • He recounts incidents from the Kosovo campaign where civilian casualties occurred, reinforcing his belief that military force should only be used when absolutely necessary.
  • He supports the idea of banning cluster bombs but recognizes the complexities involved in military strategy and the need for appropriate weaponry.

Conclusion and Future Engagement

  • In conclusion, Clark emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive strategy that incorporates diplomatic, economic, and military elements to address conflicts in the Middle East.
  • He advocates for direct engagement with countries like Iran and Syria to foster stability and peace in the region.
  • Clark expresses his belief that the U.S. must change its approach to foreign policy to effectively address the challenges it faces, rather than focusing solely on military solutions.