Scary to Say the Least

The awarding of Iran's highest state medal to Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez today for his support of Iran in its nuclear stnadoff with the west is a chilling reminder of the dangerous world we live. By offering mutual support between the two nations, Chavez, and Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, represent an alarming coalition that could destablize the world economy. Both nations hold their vast amounts of oil over the heads of the industrialized world. Any collaberation between these nations could send oil prices beyond the recent record highs.

I have been a strong supporter of the War on Terrorism and feel it is a vital to the national interest of the United States. However, during the past three weeks as the situtation in the Middle East has bordered on regional war, I have come to the conclusion that the War in Iraq has left Iran the only major power in the region. The toppling of Saddam Husseing removed the only check on Iranian aggression in the Middle East and has created the insurgent mess in Iraq, as well as, the hostile rebirth of Hammas.

Iran is now looking to forge alliances with nations outside the Middle East. Venezuela is a perfect fit because its President has been in open rebellion against US policy for years. The new partnership is a win-win for both countries and provides further headache to the Bush Administration on the foreign policy front. The new coalition allows Chavez, who aims to assert more influence in South American politics, a chip in gaining respect from his neighbors.

Our country, and world, is in the most precarious state since the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962. The United States has no foreign policy plan to deal with the ever changing situation across the globe. Condeleeza Rice is the most incompetent Secretary of State this nation has had, even outdoing Madalyn Albright. Each day, world affairs take a course that is not in the interest of our country with no response or proactive agenda from the administration.

If America was a parliamentary form of government, the 2006 elections would be a chance for change in the foreign policy apparatus. Unfortunately, a change in foreign policy will come only with the innauguration of a new President in 2008. If Bush was smart, he would remove his foriegn policy team and replace them with a proven expert who has respect. George Mitchell would be a good choice!