U.S. Engaging Libyan Opposition, Moving Military Assets Nearby - Businessweek

according to bloomberg news:

"Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said today the U.S. is dispatching emergency relief teams to Libya’s borders to assist refugees fleeing the government’s armed crackdown on a popular uprising, while the Pentagon said it is repositioning military units near Libya.

Clinton said U.S. naval forces in the Mediterranean and U.S. military assets from NATO and host country bases might be used to support a “humanitarian intervention” and “rescue missions” aimed at assisting refugees fleeing political violence in North Africa."

the way the US seems to define "humanitarian intervention," one can't be faulted for not showing unrestrained enthusiasm for madame clinton's statement. after all, the woman is a neo-con blowhard, long on platitudes and short on backing up her words with complementary actions. a day late, and a dollar short, one might say, as the US seems to be straining to gain the mantle of friend to the people, and supporter of liberation and democracy. it's only when the success of the revolt seems guaranteed that the obama team throws its support to the winner.

or to put it more succinctly, i hope this humanitarian intervention isn't a euphemism for invasion and occupation of the oil fields, striking a blow for freedom and democracy in the dick cheney sense. later in the story, we learn:

Today in Washington, the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Susan Rice, said U.S. officials have been in touch with “all sorts” of Libyans, though it’s “unclear at this point who will emerge” as a viable opposition representing those seeking a democratic government.

The U.S. wants to see a “responsible” government emerge in Libya that respects “universal rights,” Rice told reporters at the White House.

that's a splendid sentiment, redolent with altruism. we, who are the deciders of truth, justice and the american way, will ferret out those who represent those seeking a democratic government, and anoint them the successors to the late regime -- which until quite recently was enthusiastically embraced by these some worthies.

did i hear you repress a laugh?