Tuesday, February 03, 2009

Bolton: Iraq elections "a triumph"


Iraq’s Victory, Iran’s Loss -John Bolton

Iraq's peaceful elections and strong voter turnout last weekend were a major success for both that country and the United States...

The elections could also redefine Iran’s role in the region. Critics of the Iraq war claimed that overthrowing Saddam Hussein in 2003 strengthened Iran’s position. Had we left Mr. Hussein in power, the theory goes, Iran would be less of a global threat. This argument is fundamentally wrong.

Iraq’s provincial elections weaken Tehran’s hand. Sunnis participated on Saturday in large numbers.

Uncomfortable though it may be for some on the American left to admit, the “surge” continues to work, politically and militarily. The moment has come for the Obama administration to acknowledge what those fingers dipped in purple ink truly represent — a triumph for democracy.
[New York Times]
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