[man of Yosemite]

I think the looting in Iraq was a surprise because we gave these people more credit than we should have. They are so far removed from the civilization they once were that it is almost regretable that we are offering them a democracy. It's a bold plan which would benefit us greatly if it can be pulled off, but they seem to be people that are mostly sheep, willing to follow even madmen to their own hurt.

As far as the president not apologizing, there is no point in cutting your arm in shark infested waters. If they want to ask rude questions, let them get answered with the same.

[liberallarry]

I think the looting in Iraq was a surprise

No it wasn't. It was one of the likely occurances predicted in pre-war planning. And it went on for a long time.

It's a bold plan which would benefit us greatly if it can be pulled off

Very bold. Even it is successful it will take a long time to make it so. Not only are we dealing with a society unused to good governance. We are also have to deal with irrational boundaries which force dissimilar peoples together - originally for the benefit of various conquerors; Arabs, Turks, English.