4. Iraqi-Afghan Legacy
No country is willing to take an independent stance or take action against Syria for fears of creating similar problems the invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan caused. Tony Blair is still confronted with his actions in Iraq everyday by furious members of the public. With this particular issue, the international community is attempting to tackle this with complete agreement and legality under the name of the United Nations. I agree international law should be obeyed, Syria does not. However, this does not confine countries to do nothing while waiting for the UN to do anything. There is a fear in the air for whoever would be willing to take the first step. There are always those who, regardless of the issue, would prioritise their domestic interest over trying to help others. This scares the political classes. While this exists, no one, especially the UK or US will be willing to tar themselves with the same brush that doomed the political career of Tony Blair among others.