And so the US has attacked Iraq and 'liberated' its people from a tyrant. But whats left of Iraq now? Civil war is about to break out. At this rate, this situation is going to be worst then Vietnam. US will have to try to end what they started in Iraq, especially with pressure from home to pull out US soldiers; and escalating kidnappings (of allied civilian workers) and death of soldiers in the war. There is a new tactic employed by US adversaries. Not only are they using guerilla tactic, they are using the internet and media to broadcast these kidnappings to advance their objectives. The internet, the very tool that the US created. These terrorists know of the irony and the benefits it brings (like spreading messages of hatred and violence).
Despite trade embargoes, Iran has crept back on its feet. Now that the Americans have directed attention on Iraq for the past few years, Iran has now declared that they can enrich Uranium and experts are saying that they could expedite their enrichment programs by some clandestine means ( with help from a renegade Pakistani scientist?). Dread to think of the day when they have enriched enough Uranium-235 to make a nuclear bomb. Whats more worrying is, their ability to make a dirty bomb soon.
US have always been at the background trying to manipulate the middle east for oil to spur its economic progress. As far back as the early 21st centaury? For to be a super power you need money. Wasn't it the Americans who goaded and guided Iraq into fighting with Iran,
First Persian Gulf War that lasted 8 years. But too bad, a dictator rose in Iraq. Which brings them to this present predicament.
Middle East is certainly a wild and untamed beast that the Americans should surely realise by now. But the prospect of controlling oil flow is just too attractive not to try. Perhaps the Chinese might do better? Don't know, only time will tell. The Chinese have been quietly making diplomatic trips/agreements with many countries globally on securing oil. It is only recently that US goverment officials have realised this. A new player to watch out.
I suspect these few years will mark the beginning of US fall from superpower status. My best bet for the next contender is China. With the rise of China, will begin a new era.
On my part, I hope somebody discover a real alternative energy source fast. One that is lasting, limitless and cheap. For until then, the Middle East will always be a hotbed for controversy, bloodshed, war and control.
