The Political Chase

Cheney’s Middle East adventures

Cheney’s trip to the Middle East is indeed a big deal. Around the globe, there is considerable speculation, and angst, all accompanied by theories adaptable to the posit-of-the-moment.

Regardless of whatever spin may be generated by a given faction or the countless milestones that could be associated with Darth Vader’s trip, there are a few key elements that are central to any view considered or stated.

March 3, 2008 - During an historic visit to Iraq, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad tells the U.S. to quit Iraq.

March 10, 2008 - Dick Cheney announces trip to Middle East.

March 11, 2008 - Centcom Commander Admiral Fallon abruptly resigns and Iran is widely viewed as dominating issue.

Iran wasn’t the only point of contention between Fallon and the rest of the Bush administration….But, it was Fallon’s words on Iran policy that riled neoconservative White House and Beltway hawks. The Esquire article describes the conflict over Iran policy as a Manichaean fight between a Bush administration hellbent on confrontation and a Fallon equally determined to cool down tensions.

March 11, 2008 - Dick Cheney delivers fiery remarks about Iran to Heritage Foundation

“Given all we know about the Iranian regime’s hatred of America, its vow to destroy Israel, and its ongoing efforts to develop the technology that could be used for a nuclear weapon, that is a danger every one of us must take seriously.”

March 14, 2008 - UPI editor on Fallon’s departure:

“If orders to attack came from the commander in chief in the White House, the attack would be under Fallon’s orders. So Fallon did what he felt senior military commanders opposed to the invasion of Iraq should have done in early-2003.

The UPI editor’s commentary and analysis is indicative of many views expressed about Admiral Fallon’s recent resignation (Bush-Cheney water-carriers excepted). I did not reference his comments because they were extraordinary, per se, however, the editor succinctly related Cheney’s actions over time to substantial and consequential global events such as the Iraq war.

November 2006 was the last time I remember Cheney making an extended trip to the Middle East, and it was indeed surrounded in controversy. Looking back to that time, all one can see is an administration caught up in an inferno, but amidst all that was transpiring at the time, it is easy to see an administration increasing its focus and war rhetoric on Iran. The focus and rhetoric continued to alarmingly increase until Bush became aware of the findings in the National Intelligence Estimate that was publicly released in December 2007.

And now, one could suggest, based on facts, that the rhetoric, focus, and questionable activities are upon us again.