Well, it IS NOT the same as going to war, now is it?!
I think we should get some of their oil, as we seem to have no problem supporting 1/4 of their population in this country. We should get something from them for that......... If any other country were to take over a state the way that they have California (42% of Ca. population is now Mexican), we WOULD go to war. My point was exactly what you support (not intentially I assume), that we could have done it "diplomatically" if we had wanted. I myself think it was all about Arms sales and keeping that machine alive and well, and also to support Israel by making a point that "we can kick the arse of mideast countries if we want to". Notice how all the Arab countires are now so willing to talk and the Israelis and Palestinians are making progress???? Did the kicking of Iraqs butt have any thing to do with that...... You bet it did.

MC