Zinni is one of the most respected flag ranks in regards to actual operational warfighting. He isn't prone to rash statements without justification, although perhaps known for taking a dogmatic stance from the information he has been provided. Sort of a Marine version of Patton, if I may be so gratuitous (or skeptical depending on one's view of Patton).
You probably mean Paul O'Neil.
He was perhaps the first to let on that Bush planned to attack Iraq even before 9/11.
From the Washington Post:
"The book, "Battle Ready," is by novelist Tom Clancy, with Zinni and Tony Koltz. Zinni was U.S. special envoy to the Middle East for Secretary of State Colin L. Powell from November 2002 to March 2003. In several interviews and statements at the time, Bush mentioned Zinni's presence in the region as one reason for his optimism about the peace process and said he was looking forward to his recommendations. Referring to himself and Vice President Cheney, Bush said during an exchange with reporters in the Oval Office, "We both trust General Zinni."
Walt
Hack, Clarke, Zinni..the same ole endless parade of Quagmire a$$ holes (with or without a book)