Hillary Clinton wraps up five day trip to Persian Gulf

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton ended her tour of the Persian gulf with a speech asking the leaders of the region to consider real changes and real reforms in their countries. She was the keynote at the Forum for the Future conference that centered on development solutions for the area. In an article titled, "Good job, Hillary" in the Foreign Policy Magazine, writer Blake Hounshell summed up the general consensus of the speech.

Hillary Clinton gave a good speech today, excoriating Arab leaders for their lousy record on reform and bluntly warning that if they don't shape up, they'll face growing extremism and alienation among their beleaguered populations. "In too many places, in too many ways, the region’s foundations are sinking into the sand," she said. "The new and dynamic Middle East that I have seen needs firmer ground if it is to take root and grow everywhere." And she warned that "others will fill the vacuum" if "leaders don’t offer a positive vision and give young people meaningful ways to contribute." "Extremist elements, terrorist groups, and others who would prey on desperation and poverty are already out there, appealing for allegiance and competing for influence," she added.

Yes, Madam Secretary!