Madam, - I write this as a simple appeal. I ask that, in the ongoing revisionism of the decision to "invade" Iraq, people take time to consider what is right, not solely concern themselves with proving they were right. I despair that so many seemingly intelligent people are more concerned with validating their opposition to the war than recognising what is actually undeniably good.
It is a very good thing that Saddam regime's is no more. In the same breath it is a very good thing the Taliban's grip on Afghanistan was destroyed. Let's just pause on that thought for a moment. It is true many criticisms can be levelled at the American/Coalition management of the immediate aftermath. But is is frighteningly early in the process. And it is true that this is an unimaginably better alternative to what Saddam represented. I say that almost irrespective of the problems ahead.
It is very important that the US administration in particular is forced to confront very legitimate questions about the "spin" that was placed on the threat from Saddam. Even at the time, I for one found that Colin Powell's UN presentation greatly undermined a man of previously high integrity.
I am no supporter of G.W. Bush, particularly on his domestic "agenda". For those eager to satiate their contempt, this month's Vanity Fair has a brilliant article critiquing the administration's control of the American media. All this is very fair comment and, it needs a thoughtful, not self-serving, response.
This does not for one moment diminish my support for Saddam's removal, however, irrespective of the "spin" and the truth of the immediate threat. If G.W. lied to the American people they will surely punish him in November 2004. This is the point. With all its flaws, the US is still a democracy, or something approximating a democracy.
None of this would equally dampen my enthusiasm for the possibilities this conflict may open up in the Middle East. The US has a very heavy burden of responsibility now. I will be quick to criticise it if it does not pursue the "Road map". There is an historic opportunity here. Let's not be too cynical, not too quickly at least.
I ask the "anti-war" types to put aside their intellectual desire to be right. Please concentrate on the now, and, the possibilities for the future. The questions for Europe are enormous. And I for one think it's time Europe faced them. Similarly for the UN and other supra-national organisations.
I would also encourage everyone to read more before asserting moral certainties. Be more open-minded. For example, catch phrases like "neo-con" are all the rage. But honestly, how seriously have you considered the counter arguments to your own views? Be brave, and honest, not populist because it's easy. - Yours, etc.,
ANDREW JOHN QUINN, Wyvern, Killiney Road, Co Dublin.