[HAL9000]

Why was the proposal idiotic?

Because Bush, Rumsfeld and the rest of the administration have been trying to emphasize, clearly and unambiguiously, that the War on Terrorism is not a war against Saudi Arabia, and we expect their cooperation.

The Saudi's paranoia level was raised sharply in their dealings with Madeline Albright. Bush is trying to get back to the status quo ante.

Unfortunately, a few low level politicians in the Pentagon and the RAND Corp. are trying to undermine his strategy, which would harm his credibility with the nations he is trying to influence. There could be severe consequences, internationally and domestically.

[spqrzilla9]

"Strategy" ? Ignoring the fact that Saudi Arabia is in reality actively financing terrorism directed against the United States is not a "strategy".

[Stavka2]

Why yes the Saudies are cooperating so well by denying FBI access to files, not arresting a damn person, continuing to recognize the Taliban, sending millions to more Islamic nutjobs, refusing the use of American bases in Saudi, writing such "wonderful" pieces about the US/Iseal and Russia...and just being all around SWELL guys.

[Stavka2]

Personally, I hope the Saudies are so scared that their gonads are half way up to their colons.