Rummyland

From my op-ed:

“Sen. Levin pointed out that not meeting timetables in Iraq's political processes could have negative repercussions for U.S. troops. He suggested that consequences be lined up for the Iraqis for not getting things done on time.”

I did not put into my op-ed that Senator Collins stated the same ideas and sentiments. And, it looks like Rumsfeld took that to the Iraqis.


From a NY Times article today:
“Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld urged Iraqi political leaders today to settle their differences and agree on a new constitution quickly,”

And:
“Mr. Rumsfeld laid out a remarkably blunt prescription for what Iraqi leaders must do in the coming weeks and months to ensure that a stable, secure and popularly elected government survives,”

And:
“We don't want any delays," Mr. Rumsfeld said. "They're simply going to have to make the compromises necessary and get on with it." He added, "That's what politics is about."

Now, here’s were it gets interesting… or is that confusing? Rumsfeld is also apposed to any FOREIGN interference in Iraq! Yes, he truly feels that way, without noticing that the US government is directly interfering in Iraq! Well, maybe he considers Iraq to be the 51st state, I don’t know. But here is what he said:

From the NY Times article:
(Iraqi politicians are) ….”to exert more influence with Syria and Iran to force them to end support for the insurgency here.”

and from The Telegraph (UK):
"Donald Rumsfeld, the US defence secretary, has urged Iraqi leaders to resist interference by the country's neighbours Iran and Syria. Washington has accused Syria of allowing militants to enter Iraq, and says Iran is trying to gain political influence in Baghdad."