(11 of 11)
Whether by war or by peaceful means, Iraq's occupation of Kuwait will eventually end. Kuwait Inc. will thrive as it always has, as will most Kuwaitis. The question then is whether Kuwait, the nation, can become New Kuwait.
The criticisms of Kuwait have always been overdrawn. At most levels they are simplistic. Often they remind a Westerner of how difficult it was to talk to a communist about the U.S. when one tried to explain that America's society was basically good despite segregation. In their hearts and minds, Americans believed that completely -- and eventually, of course, the remnants of at least legal discrimination were abolished. Similarly, Kuwait's problems should be seen in context. Like Israel, an essentially decent nation despite some glaring blind spots, Kuwait before Saddam was a good country in a bad neighborhood. It will surely be that again, but it could be much more. A terrible tragedy has afforded Kuwait the rarest of opportunities, a true second chance. If it rises to the challenge, a good country could become a great one.
CHART: NOT AVAILABLE
CREDIT: TIME Chart by Joe Lertola
CAPTION: KUWAIT'S HOLDINGS