Madam, - The Sunday Times columnist David Quinn, in his article "Speed of American Victory is the real Shock and Awe" (April 13th), states: "The Irish Times also got it wrong. A headline on March 28th read 'Pentagon faces war lasting months rather than weeks.' The list of those who called the war badly is endless."
He also alleges that many Irish commentators indulged in "wishful thinking and self-delusion." I respect his right to hold such an opinion but I think it is he who is indulging in wishful thinking and self-delusion.
In my opinion only the first stage of this war has ended and the second stage, which has already begun, is likely to last for years rather than months and be of a very vicious and personal kind in which the "suicide bomber" will play a big part.
Over 60 per cent of the Iraqi population are ardent Shiite Muslims, and that means they are committed to abiding by the teachings of the Koran believing that every word contained therein was spoken by God personally. In addition, they believe in enforcing Sharia law and the foul practice of limb amputations. They want a hard-line Islamic state and will get it eventually, not only because they will fight to the death for it but also because they have a substantial majority. And isn't that what democracy is all about?
An equally important consideration is the fact that they will never allow themselves to be dictated to by a Christian occupying army.
Currently Bush is contemplating moving his military bases from Turkey and Saudi Arabia to Iraq, the intention being to open up four such bases there. This is a recipe for disaster if ever there was one.
Where this conflict is concerned I would make three forecasts:
1. Iraq will rapidly become a second Vietnam.
2. US forces will eventually be driven out with their tails between their legs.
3. George Bush, like his father, will not be re-elected. - Yours, etc.,
W.G.A. SCOTT,
Friars Hill,
Wicklow.
Madam, - The Irish Times deserves great credit for its stance on the US-led invasion of Iraq. In particular the reporting from Baghdad of Lara Marlowe has been outstanding. Such a contrast with the US "patriotic media" in bed with the invading forces - and of course the bulk of the English gutter press, including those masquerading under a green masthead. - Yours, etc.,
JAMES MORAN,
Knockanure,
Bunclody,
Co Wexford.