The Other View

In all probabilities by the time this article goes to press, America will have gone to war with Iraq, therefore kick-starting the first major conflict in the 21st century. Avoidance at this late stage seems out of the question for Saddam Hussein as America has convinced themselves and their allies of the smoking gun. It looks increasingly likely that the Iraqi people will suffer the same fate as those in Afghanistan at the hands of American B52 bombers.

Saddam Hussein came to power with the support of the American government at the time, not by the democratic wishes of the people of that country, and therefore they shouldn't be held accountable for his actions. Of course, all of this is lost on George Bush as he pursues his so-called war against terrorism. The events in New York and Manhattan on the 11th September are seen as carte blanche by the American government to attack any perceived threat to their security, coupled with a sense of retaliation as illustrated by the words scribbled on one loaded shell (Payback time).This dangerous rationale used when Afghanistan was attacked leaves the world no safer, as the prime target of the bombing, Osama Bin Laden, is now recognised by America to be responsible for the Bali bombing.

Tony Blair seems happy to continue to play the role of lap dog when all around him people are asking questions and looking for proof of these weapons of mass destruction. On a mission to convince countries such as Germany and France to support an attack on Iraq and hence on innocent civilians. Blair indicated that North Korea must convince the Western alliance that they are not acquiring weapons of mass destruction. Are we supposed to feel safer now that these two global powers police the world on our behalf? Quite the opposite. In fact, with the Irish government allowing refuelling at Shannon airport, Ireland can no longer claim neutrality. The real reason for going to war is economic, most specifically the price of oil and who controls that, and the inability of America to accept anything other than applying the heavy hand.

American and British troops already out in the gulf will not be coming back without a fight, thus leaving any third option unacceptable to these warlords. This impending war is a bit like the Millennium Spike in Dublin's O'Connell Street ; most people are against it but it probably will happen, unfortunately with more serious consequences. Everything points to war, death and destruction.

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