An interesting point raised on National Radio (NZ) this morning by the editor of an Arab newspaper (can't remember the name - sorry) is that there isa growing feeling amongst Arabs that the timing of this action was determined by Washington to divert attention from the growing international criticism of Israel over it's persecution of the Palestinians.

This may or may not be true (the policy that is) but it shows just how unimportant "facts" are in these situations. I also get the worrying feeling that when several people above refer to having friends in the area, the "Bomb Sadam" faction have automatically assumed that US / British servicemen were being refered to rather than westerners living in Iraq, or Iraqui civilians.

As GeorgeH points out, Busn and Co, did not want to destroy Saddam. As a hate object he is of far more use to Washington than a democratically elected government. These just can't be trusted and are prone to making ridiculous decisions like supporting policies inimical to US business interests.

Sorry this is a bit of a ramble, trying to catch up on several points at once.

Pete M