"The question is whether they are just playing both ends against the middle in order to get as much money for their oil as possible, or are attempting a strategic realignment to include the Islamic world with them and China (and oil producing Latin American countries) as a major bloc against the U.S."
It's not even a question. They are in way too deep for all "play both ends against the middle strategy". They give our enemies everything and the only thing they give us is words.
Chinese curse: May you live in interesting times.
When George first took office in 2001 I saw so many dangers out there for him to deal with and looking around it appeared to me he would be going it alone without backup.
Tony Blair has been a pleasant surprise.
But there are far too many in this country who should have had his six and have instead proven they aren't men to go to the well with.