Iraq as Stepchild of the American Empire

A Colony By Any Other Name

Counterpunch, Weekend Edition, Feb 2 / 3, 2008

By ROBERT FANTINA

A recent report in the New York Times outlines new U.S. demands being made on Iraq. The article states, in part, the following: "the Bush administration will insist that the government in Baghdad give the United States broad authority to conduct combat operations and guarantee civilian contractors specific legal protections from Iraqi law." So much for Mr. Bush's vision of a democratic Iraq.

That one phrase contains two alarming concepts that should send up red flags in the halls of Congress, the United Nations and throughout the Arab world, although it is probably only the latter that will react. A look at each concept, and the expected reaction from those potentially impacted, is somewhat frightening.

The U.S., says Mr. Bush, must have 'broad authority to conduct combat operations.' In 2003 Mr. Bush sought that authority and, with the willing acquiescence of a Republican-controlled Congress, easily gained it. Since then, Republicans and Democrats alike have extended his 'authority' to 'conduct combat operations' at whatever level he chooses. It appears unlikely that he will be denied this ability anytime during the final year of his reign of terror.

Continued . . .