The French President seems to be borrowing the same costly policies that were implemented by Bush

Much has changed in France in the last decade. The country that was once united in opposition of US military adventurism in the Middle East is now falling in the trap of its own military adventurism and abstract wars on extremism and terrorism.

Shortly after an attack in Paris by French-born and raised militants, the menace of ‘Islamic extremism’ once more resurfaced. Few seem to be asking the right questions: About France’s own responsibility in engendering militarism in the Middle East and Africa, specifically its deadly missions in Mali and Libya, and also its sinister role in Syria. Few are questioning poverty and alienation that is felt by large swathes of French society, especially those of immigrants and their descendants.

Instead, the deadly attacks, resulting in the murder of 17 people, became a subject of discussion about freedom of expression, however sadistic, insensitive and degrading it may be.

French President Francois Hollande found in the killings a political opportunity unmatched. He led nearly 40 world leaders, many of whom with terrible human rights records, in a solidarity march in Paris in January 11. Expectedly, his poor record among voters received a boost, in fact a historic one. His approval rating jumped by 21 points, to 40 per cent according to polling agency Ifop ..

Excerpts from Hollande and the wars ahead – Ramzy Baroud – Gulf News