I fully agree with the calls to obey the rulers and show restraint in times of crisis and calamity. I also agree with calls for this policy to be adopted under all circumstances without exception — whether it pertains to neighboring Iraq, to Afghanistan or to Chechnya. However, what I don’t agree with is the call for militarizing Saudi society, including adopting policies such as the opening of more military colleges and other signs of militarization. Any move in this direction should only follow after thorough studies and investigation and after considering all points of view. There has to be a careful reading of local, regional and international conditions. Have those calling for these policies consulted research centers or think-tanks before making their suggestions? Or are the suggestions only a spontaneous proposal prompted by a specific situation? It has been such thoughtless improvisations that brought us to where we are now, causing us to suffer moral and material defeat.
Militarizing any society is not, in my opinion, the right way to defeat an enemy. Judging from other nations’ experiences, it is clear that any militarization which is not accompanied by sustained development will backfire, bringing endless miseries to the people. Iraq spent more than three decades building a huge military force but it was all done at the expense of economic and social development. And what was the result? What is happening right now before our eyes? What is the point of a huge military force if the people feel no love for their country, are hungry, and have their freedom and dignity compromised on a daily basis? What is the use of a military power that brings only moral and material destruction?
To confront the enemy we must first adopt the means that lead to victory — unite the ranks, observe transparency, be fair and frank with each other, admit seeking and refrain from manipulating others’ faults and shortcomings.
Human, industrial and technological development has occurred in nations all over the world with varying degrees of success. Our scholars, intellectuals, media and others must stop fighting with the only weapons they have mastered — words. Living in the past and recalling bygone glories will not take us where we aspire to be or give us the strength we need to confront the challenges. The lessons of Kabul and Baghdad should open our eyes and motivate us to do better.
Arab News From the Local Press 21 April 2003
