Its interesting that the observations regarding a push into Iran have also been coupled together with the Pax Americana concept argument made by some on this forum, and by the likes of Wolfowitz (et al).
If Pax Americana were indeed the new military doctine for GWB, then both Syria and Iran would have been struck at immediately.
The fact that this has not occurred (to date) suggests that: 1) the Pax Americana converts do not indeed control GWB; 2) GWB is his own man; 3) Secretary Powell is indeed much stronger than many out there would otherwise have us believe; and 4) there was genuine belief held by the Administration (and by GWB and his closest advisers) of the prospective threat posed by Iraq and the continuing presence of Saddam, than by the apparent threats of Syria and /or of Iran.
In other words, the Iraq intervention may well have been advanced for reasons totally unassociated with Pax Americana and that, as a doctrine, Pax Americana actually is not being practised except in the collective minds of a few supposed intellects.
Maybe a controversial statement to some on this forum, but Iran and Syria have not yet posed the threat befitting of a retaliatory response, although each have been reminded of what the consequences of such a retaliation could well be, should this ever come to pass.
Of more immediate concern is the renewed roadblocks in the Roadmap to Peace and how the community of nations (including Israel) will respond to this.
