Political Science War in Iraq Would Be

Political Science war in Iraq would be dangerous at best, disastrous at worst. It will embolden the terrorist cause and encourage further attacks against the United States and its allies. Support for al-Qaida and other terrorist networks will increase, as anti-American sentiment will grow exponentially. A war in Iraq will exacerbate tensions in the Middle East, a region already ripe with political strife. The use of military might to overthrow Saddam Hussein will confirm the negative image many people have about the United States and may stimulate further grassroots movements to undermine American interests. War in Iraq will also verify the accusation that America's main concern is control of oil reserves in the region. An overthrow of the Iraqi government amounts to a selfish, ill-advised political and military move. Moreover, tens of thousands of civilians stand to be killed in what would doubtlessly become a total war. American troops would be exposed to biological and chemical weapons, and citizens back home in the U.S. would likewise be threatened with weapons of mass destruction. Saddam Hussein's willingness to deploy nuclear weapons should be enough encouragement to avoid a war in Iraq.

This is not to say that Americans should recoil in fear at the name "Saddam," or shirk responsibility. On the contrary, Americans should exhibit strength and resiliency in the face of rampant hatred and mistrust. But the terrorist attacks of September 11 are not directly linked to the Iraqi regime. Even if they were, care must be taken before leaping into a potential war of mass destruction. Retaliation on the scale called for by the U.S. government would entail a slaughter of innocents that would far surpass that of September 11 in scope. It is time for patience, not for misplaced anger.

Nor is it time for greed. United States involvement in the affairs of other nations, such as those in Central and South America, should teach our elected officials of the dangers of money-motivated military action. That the United States covets Iraqi oil is no secret. Hiding under the guise of justice and freedom only demonstrates hypocrisy. If the U.S. government were truly concerned with the welfare of the Iraqi people, it would foster programs of education and ease sanctions, instead of waging war. I implore you to explore alternate modes of helping the Iraqi people, for war will certainly not accomplish anything of lasting value.