Annan’s actions have shown Mr. Assad that there will be no consequences for his ruthless bloodletting. Annan’s decision to continue to “negotiate” with Assad has also given the Syrian leader credibility, and undermined the Syrian opposition. Annan’s ridiculous “agreements” with Assad give countries such as China and Russia a continued excuse to resist efforts to take decisive action. And ultimately, Mr. Annan’s diplomatic charade has eviscerated the distinction between right and wrong.
Those who support the United Nations should immediately call from Mr. Annan’s removal as special envoy for Syria. Annan is significantly damaging the reputation of the United Nations through his irresponsible handling of the situation. And, what’s worse, he may even be responsible for prolonging the crisis.
Well intentioned as he may be, Mr. Annan stubbornly refuses to acknowledge that sometimes a situation can be boiled down to right and wrong. And when it comes to Syria, Kofi Annan is dead wrong.
David Meyers served in the White House from 2006 to 2009, and later in the United States Senate. He is currently pursuing graduate studies at Columbia University.
