Chapter 26 Summary and Analysis

On January 14, Bush's anger flares, telling reporters time is running out on Saddam. Next day he will meet his firmest friend in Europe, Polish Pres. Kwasniewski, who is suffering politically for his support. Bush is confident success in freeing and feeding Iraqis will play well in Poland and blames Saddam for not following the South African precedent for disarming. Bush will move sooner rather than later, but not precipitously. Like Powell, Kwasniewski wonders what will happen if international support collapses. Bush sidesteps to say Islam like Christianity can thrive in a democracy. He only wants Poland to support him and supply troops.

Jan. 15, Bush and his war cabinet hear about humanitarian efforts planned by NSC Middle East Affairs Director, Elliott Abrams, a hard-line conservative indicted in the Iran-contra affair but pardoned by the senior Bush in 1992. He has already directed relief...