Gates: Mideast Unrest An “Extraordinary Setback” For Al Qaeda, Iran

Defense Secretary Robert Gates shared an overtly optimistic view of the continuing unrest in the Middle East and Northern Africa Tuesday, telling reporters that he believed the region’s shift toward democracy represent an “extraordinary setback” for al Qaeda.

“It basically gives lie to al Qaeda’s claim that the only way to get rid of authoritarian governments is through extremist violence,” Gates said during a press briefing. “The peoples of several countries in the region are proving this not to be the case.”

Gates added that the revolutions could also indicate trouble for Iran, explaining that the responsible behavior from the Tunisian and Egyptian military stands in stark contrast with the “savage repression” exhibited by the Iranians.

The Defense Secretary conceded that it will likely take years to determine the lasting effects of the unrest, but that said that any move toward democratic governments suggest a “gain” for both the region and the international community.

Gates’ remarks come as the Libyan government faces a massive insurrection. When asked Tuesday about the possibility of intervention in the country from the U.S. military, Gates responded that there is no consensus from either NATO or the UN on the necessity of force, but that the U.S. has established a naval presence in the Mediterranean to facilitate an evacuation or provide humanitarian assistance.

Gates added that further actions, including establishing Libya as a no-fly zone, need to be approached with caution.