this
way of approaching the decision does make sense. If you doubt it, don't
just list the policy's all too obvious dangers: test it against the
alternatives--something I have not seen Obama's critics do. One option
would have been to do nothing. In other words, abstain with China and
Russia on the UNSC resolution. What a splendid message to the world that
would have sent. Or maybe vote for the resolution, then commit no
resources to enforcing it--the usual European approach to global
leadership. Thankfully, the US is better than that. Alternatively, go
all in, make regime change the goal, and target Gaddafi--but now without
international backing. That would have been a heavier burden and an
even bigger gamble. The course of action Obama chose is risky, to be
sure, but when you think them through the alternatives look worse.