BUMP!
A free Iraq could hasten the end of corrupt despotism in Iran and Saudi Arabia and give hope to Palestinians.
It is a Big Idea - similar to Ronald Reagan's 1980s vision for eastern Europe - rather than hawkish lunacy, and it merits our attention.
Resentment of American power and appeasement of a despot with a track record of internal repression and external aggression are no basis for a foreign policy.
But resentment is all France has these days.
Well, that and antifreeze-flavored champagne.
#1) Elminate Saddam's ability to use WMD, either alone or with Al-Quaida, against us or our allies.
#2) Liberate Iraqis.
#3) Set a democratic example in the Arab world.
#4) Put other countries on notice about the consequences of rogue behaviour.
Note that the first objective is sufficient to require action. The others are ancillary benefits that support action. Note that oil, territory, retribution and hegemony are not included.
Clarity helps. Stay on message.
Saddam + WMD = Armeggadon, coming to a city near you, if we do not act now.