Bush and Cheney were aware.
I think the problem was that the muslim world had already mobilized to demonize them and already had Obama in position to take the office. Demonization/confusion/shake Americas foundations... and it WAS overwhelming. Globally. The muslim voice spoke.
When 9/11 occurred, I think Bush wanted to hammer Islam... but was read the riot act by them of the ramifications so he sought a different program, surround Iran, the root. Not a bad compromise.
Now, Iran enjoys the cover of their man in OUR White House and those pre thought efforts are seemingly off the table..
Now we have the esact converse, Obama using America to further Islam. Look at his MB and the north Africa Caliphate. Moamar Ghadaffi? Wat crap!
And yes, they are encapsulating Israel.
Once Israel goes, so does western man and in the meanwhile Obama is doing everything to screw the hub, America.
Very good perspective and analysis.
GW Bush is a good man. He was, like you say, caught up in events.
I still blame him for allowing 0bama to assume the presidency. But I can also see his desire to live another 25 years so I can see his terrible perdicament.
I think they’ve all been threatened.