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Syria crisis: reader responses on how the global community should respond	Syria crisis: reader responses on how the global community should respond
2013-08-28 21:55:29 UTC	2013-09-18 11:30:27 UTC (21 days later)
The major western powers, including the United States, United Kingdom, and France, have all stated that there is little doubt that the Assad regime has used chemical weapons against its own people in Syria. Now the question remains: what will they do about it?	The major western powers, including the United States, United Kingdom, and France, have all stated that there is little doubt that the Assad regime has used chemical weapons against its own people in Syria. Now the question remains: what will they do about it?
While the world’s leaders deliberate courses of action – including but not limited to military intervention – we asked our readers to consider the same question that Obama, Cameron, Hollande, and others currently face: what is the appropriate response to the ongoing crisis in Syria?	While the world’s leaders deliberate courses of action – including but not limited to military intervention – we asked our readers to consider the same question that Obama, Cameron, Hollande, and others currently face: what is the appropriate response to the ongoing crisis in Syria?
Responses flooded in from readers around the world, an indicator that the conflict rocking Syria is being felt across the globe.	Responses flooded in from readers around the world, an indicator that the conflict rocking Syria is being felt across the globe.
Below, we feature the most detailed, thoroughly reasoned proposals. Among them are some themes: many mentioned Turkey’s potential role as a safe destination for Syrian refugees, and readers on all sides of the debate emphasized the need for open talks with Russia, Iran and China before western governments take any action. Responses have been broken down into three groups: those who believe their governments should militarily intervene, those who want alternatives to military force, and those who want no western intervention whatsoever. The submissions have been lightly edited for grammar and clarity.	Below, we feature the most detailed, thoroughly reasoned proposals. Among them are some themes: many mentioned Turkey’s potential role as a safe destination for Syrian refugees, and readers on all sides of the debate emphasized the need for open talks with Russia, Iran and China before western governments take any action. Responses have been broken down into three groups: those who believe their governments should militarily intervene, those who want alternatives to military force, and those who want no western intervention whatsoever. The submissions have been lightly edited for grammar and clarity.
Use the comment threads for debate and discussion or to contribute your own proposal. Do you agree with the suggestions, or would you take an alternative approach? What are the strengths and weaknesses to our featured readers’ approaches?	Use the comment threads for debate and discussion or to contribute your own proposal. Do you agree with the suggestions, or would you take an alternative approach? What are the strengths and weaknesses to our featured readers’ approaches?
I. Syria requires some degree of military action	I. Syria requires some degree of military action
Username: fuzzytruthseeker Location: Canada Age: 66 Profession: Retired international civil service economist “My overarching goal would be regime change”	Username: fuzzytruthseeker Location: Canada Age: 66 Profession: Retired international civil service economist “My overarching goal would be regime change”
Part I: Choose which country you’re acting as, and give us a detailed plan for intervening on behalf of the Syrian people.	Part I: Choose which country you’re acting as, and give us a detailed plan for intervening on behalf of the Syrian people.
I am acting on behalf of US. My overarching goal would be regime change in the sense that Assad must go. But, he would have to go, of his own volition, helped by a combination of international pressure, a worsening security situation for him, his collaborators, and for the Alawis in a post-Assad Syria.	I am acting on behalf of US. My overarching goal would be regime change in the sense that Assad must go. But, he would have to go, of his own volition, helped by a combination of international pressure, a worsening security situation for him, his collaborators, and for the Alawis in a post-Assad Syria.
A regime change in post-Assad Syria would have occurred only as a result of heavy casualties among his troops – as well as vast destruction of infrastructure and weaponry, and irreconcilable enmity between the Sunnis and the Alawis. I would attempt to seek United Nations security council (UNSC) approval, factoring in the high likelihood that it will not be forthcoming, but making the point that consultation was sought. I would secure not only full Arab League support for my goals and means to achieve them, but also that of Turkey. I would also consult with Iran, again factoring in the high likelihood that their collaboration will not be forthcoming.	A regime change in post-Assad Syria would have occurred only as a result of heavy casualties among his troops – as well as vast destruction of infrastructure and weaponry, and irreconcilable enmity between the Sunnis and the Alawis. I would attempt to seek United Nations security council (UNSC) approval, factoring in the high likelihood that it will not be forthcoming, but making the point that consultation was sought. I would secure not only full Arab League support for my goals and means to achieve them, but also that of Turkey. I would also consult with Iran, again factoring in the high likelihood that their collaboration will not be forthcoming.
I would make sure that consultation with Israel will be kept to a minimum; only what is necessary for them to be prepared in case there is a serious national security fallout as a result of intervention. I would put across strongly the point that use of chemical weapons had made it a necessity to prevent a precedent being set that Nato will be less than implacable when chemical weapons are used in conflicts. Regarding the means, I would emphasize strongly to the whole world that Nato has moved its military navy off the coast of Syria not only for civilian evacuation purposes, but for military offensive purposes as well if necessary, without putting boots on the ground.	I would make sure that consultation with Israel will be kept to a minimum; only what is necessary for them to be prepared in case there is a serious national security fallout as a result of intervention. I would put across strongly the point that use of chemical weapons had made it a necessity to prevent a precedent being set that Nato will be less than implacable when chemical weapons are used in conflicts. Regarding the means, I would emphasize strongly to the whole world that Nato has moved its military navy off the coast of Syria not only for civilian evacuation purposes, but for military offensive purposes as well if necessary, without putting boots on the ground.
In reality though, I would totally rule out the possibility of a military offensive against Syria, and keep to a minimum whatever limited missile launches are made to provide cover for the “rebels.” Widespread destruction of infrastructure would be avoided at any cost.	In reality though, I would totally rule out the possibility of a military offensive against Syria, and keep to a minimum whatever limited missile launches are made to provide cover for the “rebels.” Widespread destruction of infrastructure would be avoided at any cost.
The ultimate aim would be to force Assad out, but providing him ample room to feel that he is exiting out of a sense of dignity and sacrifice for his country and its people. I would make sure that the “rebels” understand clearly that whatever shape an interim government they put in place after the removal of Assad, multi-party elections will be held, with diversity representatives and plural-sect-loyalty candidates to deputation encouraged to enter the electoral race. Financial and logistical pledges for support will be tentatively made up front.	The ultimate aim would be to force Assad out, but providing him ample room to feel that he is exiting out of a sense of dignity and sacrifice for his country and its people. I would make sure that the “rebels” understand clearly that whatever shape an interim government they put in place after the removal of Assad, multi-party elections will be held, with diversity representatives and plural-sect-loyalty candidates to deputation encouraged to enter the electoral race. Financial and logistical pledges for support will be tentatively made up front.
Part II: Discuss the major challenges you anticipate as you take action.	Part II: Discuss the major challenges you anticipate as you take action.
• To reassure Russia, China, Iran that the goal is not to consolidate Western influence in the Middle East, but to prevent a lethal worsening of the geopolitical security situation. • To make the fractious rebel groups understand, in no uncertain terms, that it is Assad's exit that is being sought, with some form of peace process initiated which would avoid reprisals against the supporters of Assad as well as remove all possibility of inter-communal violence. • To warn the diverse opposition groups that the Western/Arab League allies will NOT privilege one group of "rebels" against any other, and it will be for the groups to reach a consensus on the way forward and on the reining-in of extremist, as well as the subsequent disarming of fighters.	• To reassure Russia, China, Iran that the goal is not to consolidate Western influence in the Middle East, but to prevent a lethal worsening of the geopolitical security situation. • To make the fractious rebel groups understand, in no uncertain terms, that it is Assad's exit that is being sought, with some form of peace process initiated which would avoid reprisals against the supporters of Assad as well as remove all possibility of inter-communal violence. • To warn the diverse opposition groups that the Western/Arab League allies will NOT privilege one group of "rebels" against any other, and it will be for the groups to reach a consensus on the way forward and on the reining-in of extremist, as well as the subsequent disarming of fighters.
Name: Bashar Username: Bashar62 Location: Beirut, Lebanon Age: 50 Profession: University professor “The plan would involve imposing a no-fly zone across the whole country”	Name: Bashar Username: Bashar62 Location: Beirut, Lebanon Age: 50 Profession: University professor “The plan would involve imposing a no-fly zone across the whole country”
Part I: Choose which country you’re acting as, and give us a detailed plan for intervening on behalf of the Syrian people.	Part I: Choose which country you’re acting as, and give us a detailed plan for intervening on behalf of the Syrian people.
For the sake of argument, I will suggest that I am acting for the US, which is the most powerful player by far.	For the sake of argument, I will suggest that I am acting for the US, which is the most powerful player by far.
Before articulating a plan it is necessary to state its aim. There is no point in limiting the aim simply to deterring the regime from using chemical weapons, as opposed to other means of inflicting brutal acts against its people. 100,000 people have been killed, the vast majority by means other than chemical weapons. It does not make sense to simply bomb chemical weapons depots and the like. That would be mild punishment, and would not have sufficient deterrence value.	Before articulating a plan it is necessary to state its aim. There is no point in limiting the aim simply to deterring the regime from using chemical weapons, as opposed to other means of inflicting brutal acts against its people. 100,000 people have been killed, the vast majority by means other than chemical weapons. It does not make sense to simply bomb chemical weapons depots and the like. That would be mild punishment, and would not have sufficient deterrence value.
The plan would involve imposing a no-fly zone across the whole country, and especially the liberated areas. This would have the effect of creating safe zones. This would provide much-needed security for large numbers of Syrians, and also encourage defections from the army. It would enable food and medicines to reach people in need. It would also mitigate the refugee crisis in neighbouring countries. Finally, it would begin the process of winning over hearts and minds which have instead been won over by Islamic extremists who, as is often the case where there is a breakdown in law and order, have filled the vacuum created.	The plan would involve imposing a no-fly zone across the whole country, and especially the liberated areas. This would have the effect of creating safe zones. This would provide much-needed security for large numbers of Syrians, and also encourage defections from the army. It would enable food and medicines to reach people in need. It would also mitigate the refugee crisis in neighbouring countries. Finally, it would begin the process of winning over hearts and minds which have instead been won over by Islamic extremists who, as is often the case where there is a breakdown in law and order, have filled the vacuum created.
Part II: Discuss the major challenges you anticipate as you take action.	Part II: Discuss the major challenges you anticipate as you take action.
Support would be sought from key European countries, and also Turkey, the Gulf states and the Arab League if possible. Russian and Chinese opposition would be predictable, but should be ignored. The continuous use of the veto to block action against the regime has discredited these countries.	Support would be sought from key European countries, and also Turkey, the Gulf states and the Arab League if possible. Russian and Chinese opposition would be predictable, but should be ignored. The continuous use of the veto to block action against the regime has discredited these countries.
The plan would shift the balance of power towards the rebels. It would be clear that the regime’s grip on power would be tenuous, and much support would be lost as this realization would set in amongst the leaders in the regime and their supporters.	The plan would shift the balance of power towards the rebels. It would be clear that the regime’s grip on power would be tenuous, and much support would be lost as this realization would set in amongst the leaders in the regime and their supporters.
The key moment would be the regime losing Damascus. At this stage, an international conference would be called at which the rebels, the Kurds, the Alawites and all other minorities and factions would be represented. It is clear that this political process could only be initiated by tilting the balance of power against the regime. Unless they lose hope that the regime continues to control significant parts of Syria, the Alawites will continue their support for the regime.	The key moment would be the regime losing Damascus. At this stage, an international conference would be called at which the rebels, the Kurds, the Alawites and all other minorities and factions would be represented. It is clear that this political process could only be initiated by tilting the balance of power against the regime. Unless they lose hope that the regime continues to control significant parts of Syria, the Alawites will continue their support for the regime.
To some extent the plan would mirror that in Libya but with the difference that it would not specifically aim at regime change. The regime in Syria is associated with sectarian groups, and representatives of the Alawite community must come to the negotiating table. There is no doubt that the plan and its implementation would involve risks, such revenge attacks. But those risks must be weighed against the certainty of continued brutality if the west does not intervene.	To some extent the plan would mirror that in Libya but with the difference that it would not specifically aim at regime change. The regime in Syria is associated with sectarian groups, and representatives of the Alawite community must come to the negotiating table. There is no doubt that the plan and its implementation would involve risks, such revenge attacks. But those risks must be weighed against the certainty of continued brutality if the west does not intervene.
Name: Haim Username: Katze Location: Kent, UK Age: 46 Profession: Technician “First order of business would be the Syrian air defense system”	Name: Haim Username: Katze Location: Kent, UK Age: 46 Profession: Technician “First order of business would be the Syrian air defense system”
Part I: Choose which country you’re acting as, and give us a detailed plan for intervening on behalf of the Syrian people.	Part I: Choose which country you’re acting as, and give us a detailed plan for intervening on behalf of the Syrian people.
The real purpose of the strikes should be to degrade Assad's capacity to control his army and oppressive apparatus and to use heavy weaponry and aviation against civilians. To that end, I would go for precise attacks on the command and control grid, using smart weapons will small footprint, preferably delivered by missiles and drones. First order of business would be the Syrian air defence system.The operation can be prolonged.	The real purpose of the strikes should be to degrade Assad's capacity to control his army and oppressive apparatus and to use heavy weaponry and aviation against civilians. To that end, I would go for precise attacks on the command and control grid, using smart weapons will small footprint, preferably delivered by missiles and drones. First order of business would be the Syrian air defence system.The operation can be prolonged.
Part II: Discuss the major challenges you anticipate as you take action.	Part II: Discuss the major challenges you anticipate as you take action.
In such scenario, the risk to both sides is minimized, but, of course, the munitions can go off course and hit a residential building. The costs aren't necessarily prohibitive, as long as we don't try to achieve all at once and have a patience to take measured, but painful action.	In such scenario, the risk to both sides is minimized, but, of course, the munitions can go off course and hit a residential building. The costs aren't necessarily prohibitive, as long as we don't try to achieve all at once and have a patience to take measured, but painful action.
2. Something needs to be done, but military force isn’t the answer	2. Something needs to be done, but military force isn’t the answer
Name: Shaun Location: UK Age: 57 Profession: Lecturer “Peace...will not be found by a military intervention”	Name: Shaun Location: UK Age: 57 Profession: Lecturer “Peace...will not be found by a military intervention”
Part I: Choose which country you’re acting as, and give us a detailed plan for intervening on behalf of the Syrian people.	Part I: Choose which country you’re acting as, and give us a detailed plan for intervening on behalf of the Syrian people.
The military personnel, hardware and software should only be used for delivering humanitarian supplies – food, shelter, medical etc – to all sides in Syria. That may be via other agencies and countries such as Lebanon but there should be no use of violence or the threat of violence.	The military personnel, hardware and software should only be used for delivering humanitarian supplies – food, shelter, medical etc – to all sides in Syria. That may be via other agencies and countries such as Lebanon but there should be no use of violence or the threat of violence.
The operation will last as long as it takes but there will also be a simultaneous diplomatic initiative to bring all sides to the negotiating table. The ultimate outcome is peace; only then can a lasting solution be established. It will not be found by a military intervention or even, probably, nor by the presence of western powers at the negotiating table. Every intervention in recent times – perhaps every intervention – such as Libya, Iraq, Kosovo, Serbia shows the poverty and hypocrisy of such a policy. The human and material cost was excessive.	The operation will last as long as it takes but there will also be a simultaneous diplomatic initiative to bring all sides to the negotiating table. The ultimate outcome is peace; only then can a lasting solution be established. It will not be found by a military intervention or even, probably, nor by the presence of western powers at the negotiating table. Every intervention in recent times – perhaps every intervention – such as Libya, Iraq, Kosovo, Serbia shows the poverty and hypocrisy of such a policy. The human and material cost was excessive.
Part II: Discuss the major challenges you anticipate as you take action.	Part II: Discuss the major challenges you anticipate as you take action.
The downside to this plan is the propensity of all the factions involved within Syria and the governments of western powers to use violence and think that violence will end violence. It might prompt a ceasefire – perhaps called a 'peace settlement' – but the human cost and the legacy of bitterness of doing so is grotesque.	The downside to this plan is the propensity of all the factions involved within Syria and the governments of western powers to use violence and think that violence will end violence. It might prompt a ceasefire – perhaps called a 'peace settlement' – but the human cost and the legacy of bitterness of doing so is grotesque.
Opposition to this plan will come from politicians with egos to stroke because the supposedly 'decisive and proportionate' use of power in the face of undoubted horrors makes them appear statesman-like, to themselves and their admirers at least. Actually it reveals the poverty of their moral and intellectual life. Ultimately the military establishment, for all their supposed reservations, will swing around and carry out their orders to fight so they will oppose it.	Opposition to this plan will come from politicians with egos to stroke because the supposedly 'decisive and proportionate' use of power in the face of undoubted horrors makes them appear statesman-like, to themselves and their admirers at least. Actually it reveals the poverty of their moral and intellectual life. Ultimately the military establishment, for all their supposed reservations, will swing around and carry out their orders to fight so they will oppose it.