We are pursuing empire, not that we want to colonize, but we want to control their economics.
I think the world chess game is about something much more fundamental than economy but let's assume you are right. All the political leaders are corrupt and are jocking for economic dominance (oil). Who would you have wanted to go away with the prize and the power in the end of the world chess game? If you say Saddam or any other totalitarian Islamic county's insane leaders, I'll I can say to you is I have a nice camel I can sell you that you would look great on when you go to your pilgrimage to the new American muslim mecca.