that's what we've been trying to tell YOU, Georgie

[waider]

US President George W Bush said this evening the idea that he was preparing to strike Iran over its nuclear programme was 'ridiculous' (link)

But he quickly added that all options are open.

Comments

[mskala.livejournal.com]

No contradiction there. He might do it, and if he does, that'll be ridiculous.

[matrushkaka.livejournal.com]

This time he'll have France involved.

[tongodeon.livejournal.com]

Will he? I've been looking for statements of reconciliation on either side and have found none. Bush never said "we made a mistake invading Iraq", France never said "we should have supported you" or "we're sending troops now". As far as I can tell they just had dinner and still think each other are dumbasses.

[matrushkaka.livejournal.com]

I haven't found any statements of reconciliation either. Looks to be mostly a publicity stint, with strong emphasis on "french fries."

So far, the only thing they seem to agree on is putting pressure on Syria to withdraw from Lebanon.

What got my attention was this article in the Toronto Star. With comments like these, it seems entirely plausible that Bush would try to get back in Europe's good graces by "agreeing" with them about Iran.

"Every time I meet Jacques he gives me good advice," Bush told reporters before he and Chirac had a private dinner in Brussels.

Bush had earlier been asked whether relations were now good enough to invite Chirac to his ranch in Texas, an honour usually reserved for close allies.
"I'm looking for a good cowboy," Bush responded.

Bush backed British, German and French efforts to negotiate a peaceful solution to the crisis.

My thoughts: Bush would like to focus on Iran and possibly take military action against them. But he doesn't want to go into another war without allies, particularly European allies. It's way too early to tell anything, but I think it will be interesting to see how the Iran situation unfolds, and how much Bush will waver from "Iran has nuclear weapons and we should intervene" to "I'm in agreement with the Europeans, let's allow Iran to join the WTO."

[eejitalmuppet.livejournal.com]

So long as he doesn't bomb Lyon or Montpellier. . .

[matrushkaka.livejournal.com]

That would be a shame; there's a really good creperie in the Place de la Comedie.

[eejitalmuppet.livejournal.com]

Indeedy; IIRC, the crepes I had there came with a chocolate and grand marnier sauce, and slivered almonds.

There's also la Viel Ecu (sp?), in a tiny, triangular place (which is almost completely filled with restaurant tables) in the old part of the city. Mmmm, andouillette du canard.