They're getting ready to do it. Making the case, softening up opinion. Pipes's article about a "democratic-minded strongman" was just a start. Here's a nice glimpse of the rotting skull underneath the smiley face from an op-ed from today's NYTimes:
In 1920, the British eventually ended the rebellion through a combination of aerial bombardment and punitive village-burning expeditions. That's what Niall Ferguson is
recommending. Though, characteristically--and chilliingly--he doesn't come right out and say so.
"Punitive village-burning expeditions." A phrase worth dwelling on in the context of the public face this war is supposed to have. "Gift of the Almighty," 'n' stuff.
Note the contrast--I place them side by side for easy comparison:
"...showering us with flower petals..." || Punitive village-burning expeditions.
"...liberators, not conquerors..." || Punitive village-burning expeditions.
"...no WMD found..." || Punitive village-burning expeditions.
"...no interest in colonizing Iraq..." || Punitive village-burning expeditions.
"...hate us because we love freedom..." || Punitive village-burning expeditions.
I look forward to hearing Bush use the phrase frequently in election speeches this year. Has a lovely ring to it, a nice, syncopated poetic rhythm. "Punitive village-burning expeditions."