OP-ED: Bush Trip to Iraq (China Post, TAIWAN)

The surprise trip by President George W. Bush to Iraq and Afghanistan nonetheless has received relatively routine media coverage. This reflects not just the lame-duck status of his administration, but also fundamental problems regarding our policies, despite the president’s very optimistic statements regarding Iraq.

The trip clearly has implications for East Asia as well as South and Southwest Asia. Concern regarding Islamic fundamentalism is directly related to the level of violence in both countries visited. In recent months, and insurgent activity in Afghanistan has expanded, and political turmoil in Iraq continues —symbolized by the journalist who hurled his shoes at Bush.

Politicians, like magicians, love public surprises that underscore their prowess. Even when we are well aware that sleight of hand is involved, the skill factor is very impressive when the trick is well done. In March 2006, Bush added a surprise visit to Afghanistan to an announced trip to India and Pakistan. The White House stated publicly that security was the reason, but the politics of surprise also was apparent.

Nearly three decades ago, the ‘October Surprise’ debate dealt with allegations that the 1980 Reagan presidential campaign, including notably vice presidential nominee George H.W. Bush, conspired with Iran to prevent the Carter administration from securing release of American hostages held by the fundamentalist Islamic government in Tehran before the November election. At the time, there was considerable public speculation that the Carter administration might secure release of the prisoners just before the presidential election.

That surprise never happened, and accusations against the Reagan team were never proven.

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