An idea

I have an idea: Why not create a multi-author English-language Maghreb/Sahel blog? There are enough general MENA/Arab Middle East blogs in this vain, but stupendously few blogs that bring together English-speaking bloggers, academics and political scientists specifically about North [west] Africa. I want to start one: Multiple perspectives, more easily facilitated debates,  and the consolidation of North Africa info into one place for those seeking it. I’d envision it dealing with area geopolitics, culture, comparative politics, and human rights. Anybody in?

Readers’ thoughts on this idea are welcome. Readers interested in participating are even more welcome.

2nd Front

The pitfalls in having a Maghreb-centered blog are many. I spoke with a Levantine friend who has relatives in “the Cause” and who is pretty knowledgable about that situation. He told me with great confidence early this week that Hezb Allah would have opened the “second front” by next week. Being more interested in other things, I made no effort on that topic: Readers know I have posted very little on the Gaza business. I will wait to until it is over to make major observations. In any event, had I post on this on Monday or Tuesday, I could pretend to have “predicted” the northern front in the most recent Levatine squabble. So I will do so now. If I turn out to be right or wrong, so be it. These rockets are not Hezb Allah rockets, though.