Robert Gibbs on the Egyptian events:
via Al Jazeera:
Has Obama spoken to Mubarak? — Gibbs is blithering: a “national security memo” has been given to the Prez, a meeting was held. But, no, they haven’t spoken.
Does the Prez stand by his Egyptian buddy? — Gibbs says this is “not about picking a person.” We are very concerned.” Again the moral equivalence: both the government and “the protesters need to refrain from violence.” We’re for democracy, freedom, etc., etc.
Gibbs: “We will be reviewing our assistance posture based on events that take place in the coming days.”
Is the revolution spreading across the Middle East: “We’re monitoring this. You have different countries, different circumstances, I don’t want to generalize.” You bet he doesn’t.
What about the military in the streets of Egypt’s cities? Is that good? Gibbs: “Restraint. Restaint. Restraint.”
What about reports of gun battles between the police and the military? Gibbs: “I don’t want to get into that.” You bet he doesn’t.
What about conversations with our allies? Gibbs: “A number of meetings have been held, but I am unaware of any calls that have been made.”
Why doesn’t the Prez pick up the phone and call Mubarak? Gibbs: More Gibbering…..
Notable here: no expression of support for Mubarak. Is an aid cut-off next? Don’t hold your breath.
