Do we want Assad gone?

Today we can read in the paper today how Saudi Arabia has recalled its ambassador from Syria, shortly after the Arab League condemned the Syrian crackdown. The Assad family's hold on power is looking ever more fragile. This begs the question, do we want the Syrian dictator gone?

Surely he has repressed his people and by allying himself with Iran he has made himself an enemy of the West. Still the removal of dictators, however despicable is likely to cause a new set of troubles. As seen after the toppling of Saddam. Like Iraq Syria is split between several religious groups, and like Iraq it is ruled by a privileged (religious) minority. The fall of Assad could be followed by a bloody struggle and maybe even civil war. Only in this case there aren't thousands if American troops to keep the situation from exploding. If the revolution results in a power vacum Al-Qaida and other Islamists can take root, like they did in Iraq.

The fall of Assad would be a joyous event. But there is the risk that we will start missing him not soon after.