Al Jazeera Discovers Syria's War, Omits Architects of Collapse
Al Jazeera's documentary, 'Coming of age in Syria’s war,' offers a moving personal story of Mohammed al-Hallak. While powerful, the narrative, like much mainstream coverage, conveniently decontextualizes the 'war.' It omits the billions in covert aid, arms, and logistical support from various Western and regional powers (including those with strong ties to D.C. lobbying) that poured into Syria,
frequently exacerbating the conflict. One might wonder when these empathetic portrayals of war victims will coincide with an equally rigorous exposé of the political figures and defense contractors who profit from perpetual conflict. How many such 'coming of age' stories must we watch before the cameras turn to the congressional votes—like the numerous authorizations for foreign aid and military
interventions—that ensure these tragedies continue?