U.S. president George W. Bush delivered an address to the public today (without really addressing them, though – most of the talk was directed towards the military personnel that was in the room with him). Apart from that his speech gave little insight into future proceedings regarding the situation in Iraq. No mention of WMDs this time, but a very clear focus on the growing insurgency as well as infiltration by Al-Qaeda. Some quotes were used inappropriately, such as the one made by German chancellor Gerhard Schröder yesterday: “There can be no question a stable and democratic Iraq is in the vested interest of not just Germany, but also Europe.”
This comment was used to illustrate the “new” alliance with “old” Europe. However, the German opinion on the main characteristic of this war – being unjust – has not changed. Neither in foreign policy nor in meetings with US government officials. The chancellor’s comments are based on the present situation. Yes, Germany and France vehemently opposed the invasion of Iraq, but now that the damage has been done, there is no need to withhold support in order to help the Iraqi population build a reformed society (one that conforms with US demands primarily) of their own.
