We now have three major factions in Iraq and the most powerful is the Shiite. Behind them is, without a shadow of a doubt, Iran, now again with a fundamental, Islamic and nationalistic Government. They will have their way in Iraq, there can be no doubt about it. There is absolutely nothing the West, and here we are speaking of the USA principally, can do about it. Regrettably I have to say, the sooner we all get out of the place the better. And what of the Oil interests? Well, what of them. Explore for oil elsewhere. I know that it is easily said, but it will have to be easily done.
Looking solely at the UK's interests, if that can be done nowadays, should the UK have become involved in this venture? I have to say, on the one hand it is good to see Sadam removed. On the other hand, we need not have become involved of course, because the USA was going to do the job in any case, with or without us. It was only because Blair thought he could emulate his idol Thatcher in this instance that he pandered to his Ego in going to war. But of course that has back-fired on him. It has also to be said that the USA is terribly naive in any matter relating to foreign policy. They have demonstrated that in every instance since the beginning of the 20th century. Vietnam is the obvious, much quoted example, but the division of Europe after WWII and the ensuing Cold War are the worst examples of their naivity. So keep clear of US overseas ventures whereever possibly, and this could have been avoided. Not that I dislike the Americans, in fact I am rather fond of them in a way.