The U.S. does have nonmilitary options in Syria. Here are four of them.

[freshwest]

11. Not sure. Just working this out:

1. More humanitarian aid, within Syria and in refugee camps

No, the UN can do that through safe passage. All sides like them as much as usual. It's also a band aid and a cover for those making the problem. It's not a natural disaster, it's done purposefully. Why keep people dependent as refugees when the problem isn't them. No more permanent refugee camps while the people in charge steal money and play games. Go to the root causes.

2. Intelligence-sharing with rebels

Not just No, but Hell No. Sounds like the Post is pimping for the MIC. Ooh, we can share our latest toys and make more money. The problem is human, not a matter of technology. The Post suggests doing it to bring down the Assad regime. Why do we need that?

No more war by proxy, when the real power is their allies. Make a deal to stop the slaughter. Let them do it.

3. Covert antiaircraft action

No. See #2. Same reason.

4. Make up with Russia (or even Iran!)

Yes. We have a lot in common with Russia in terms of trade. We train and work together on the space program:

http://us-russia200.moscow.usembassy.gov/200th/anniversary.php?record_id=space

We have economic ties with them:

http://www.consensuseconomics.com/News_and_Articles/US_Russia_Economic_Relations411.htm

The USA is selling them nuclear stuff. This article does say it will help with proliferation. Not like we can't talk about it. They might even give us some incentive to reduce our WMD more than we already have. Other than that, worried about a nuclear Iran when their Russians pals can give them what they need? We should all be scared to death. Really?

http://www.boston.com/business/articles/2011/01/11/us_russia_civil_nuclear_deal_comes_into_effect/

Still selling them more stuff and buying stuff:

http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/03/07/us-usa-russia-trade-idUSTRE8261RL20120307

FWIW, the lives lost may be some psychopathic game being applied to get better trade terms. Russia and the USA are not political enemies, anymore than China and the USA. Competitors in all matters of resources, yes, which has nothing to do with ideology or theology.

And Iran is just as much a friend of Russia as Syria is. Their mutual histories go back many hundreds of years. And yes, they are NOT nice people overall.

I am pissed about Assad or whoever killing his people. Maybe we are going to come of age and realize that human priorities are all off. I am ready to be informed by those who know more. Gotta go.