Awhile back I predicted the U.S. would try and turn to a strongman in Iraq - despite their (obviously insincere) claims of promoting democracy. I once had a commentator (can't find the link at the moment) note how I had been wrong. Well, looks like I just spoke too soon. They very well may attempt it now in desperation. (Via Billmon):
...Should a second government fail, it would not only raise questions about Maliki's effectiveness but might indicate that anyone would have difficulty leading Iraq. Few in the U.S. government so far have suggested anything as drastic as another change in the leadership, although some, frustrated by the lack of progress, have voiced a private view in recent weeks that Iraq might be better off under a traditional Middle Eastern strongman.
It's far more difficult to predict the NFL games than the actions and motives of these fools. Billmon noted that this is the second time he has seen this type of speculation and isn't optimistic about the likelihood of success.
There's only one man in Iraq I can think who would possibly pull something like that off -- and his name isn't Ahmed Chalabi. However, considering how badly the country has fragmented over the past three years, even Saddam might not want his old job back. I don't think he could stomach the blood.
Kinda ironic isn't it?
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