Monthly Archives: August 2005

The Western media has devoted precious little consideration or discussionto the importance of the Shi’a-Sunni split within the context of the current struggle against Islamic extremism.   This is further complicated as issues such as Iran’s nuclear program and the disarmament … Continue reading →

Dr. Michael Rubin of AEI and various other Jacobin vehicles is not one of my intimate friends.  In fact, my lawyer has caused publications in which he has defamed me to withdraw a number of untruths. Nevertheless, lately he has … Continue reading →

"Dissecting Iraq’s Constitution" Ltr to Washington Post, Tuesday, August 9, 2005; Page A16 An Aug. 2 editorial suggested that the committee drafting Iraq’s constitution should put forth a partial constitution if necessary to avoid a draft that enshrines "Islamic law" … Continue reading →

"I assured them that the United States believes strongly that the Iraqi constitution should provide equal rights before the law for all Iraqis regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, religion or sect," Khalilzad said. "There can be no compromise."   WP I … Continue reading →

Why not? Do not assume that Iranian policy has to be any more straightforward than that of any other country. Remember, at the time of the Iran-Iraq War and the Iran-Contra affair, we were playing both sides against the middle … Continue reading →

Here on a pre-publication basis are Arnaud de Borchgrave’s views on the developing situation in relations among the US, Iraq’s new government, and Iran. They closely resemble my own.  pl Download iran_deborchgrave.pdf

As I said the other day, watch the English when they make their minds’ up about an enemy.  Today’s announcements by Blair of severe security measures do not surprise. The new "rules" will allow for easy deportation of foreign residents … Continue reading →

Guns in this context means artillery.  Howitzers, heavy mortars, long rifles, etc.,  weapons gnerally above 100 mm. in tube diameter.  Some ordnance man will probably want to argue over that definition. "Ride to the sound of the guns," is an … Continue reading →

This is from an old book called "The Arab of the Desert."  pl Download tribal_map.jpg