Patrick M. Regan : Obama facing decision on striking Syria over use of chemical weapons . Whatever strategic reasons , he says , Obama 's act would have implications for Syria 's civil war . Comment: Regan : Statistical evidence suggests well-timed negotiations can shorten war .
Patrick M. Regan : Obama facing decision on striking Syria over use of chemical weapons . Whatever strategic reasons , he says , Obama 's act would have implications for Syria 's civil war . He says much research shows outside intervention in civil wars makes them longer and worse . Regan : Statistical evidence suggests well-timed negotiations can shorten war .