From a self-described, unconfirmed “low-placed source” at State, Secretary Rice is sending a group of investigators “to kick asses and take names” – OR convincingly demonstrate that Blackwater’s hired guns acted in self-defense when they allegedly shot and killed Iraqi civilians. That’s a tall order. Proving a “negative” and/or what was an individual’s “intent” (or lack thereof) is difficult under the best of investigative circumstances, but in the murky world of Iraqi factions, tribal loyalties, religious rivalries, and constant press “sniping,” etc.; it will make the quest for the Holy Grail pale in comparison. Luckily, there’s no time pressure. The “preliminary” report is due for delivery October 5^th.  (UPI, AP report in Pravda)

Condi has set the bar rather high.  Of course, she has always maintained the highest of personal standards for herself, and as such she expects nothing less from her most trusted colleagues.

With progress now convincingly being made in Iraq — a fact begrudgingly admitted even by many in the mainstream media, albeit with numerous, ominous caveats – Condi is not about to let this incident derail the forward momentum brought on by the poorly named “surge.”

Is there a “take home message” for Condistas in this issue? As the members of the investigative group are named, they will fall into two general groups with overlap based on each individual’s professional and political resume. Ideally, each member will fall into both categories, but alas, that would be in a “perfect” political world – and not the world of “realpolitik.” The first group will be Condi’s most trusted confidantes. The second will be those that are selected to increase the credibility of the investigation’s findings both internationally and domestically. Those that are squarely in the first group are potential cabinet members and upper level staffers in any future Rice administration.

Is there any ”silver lining” to investigations of wrongdoing by members of the American military and their “hired guns” – past present and future? Actually, there is. Iraqis (based on personal communications) are impressed that the US Government seriously prosecutes its own when they are guilty of misconduct. This never would have happened under Saddam. On the other hand, anti-American interests are quick to point out that it is impossible to know if the sentences against American military and civilian personnel are actually carried out. (Note to State, Defense, PYSOPS, etc.: This would be an excellent avenue to exploit. Give trusted representatives of the victims’ families unannounced access to military and civilian correctional facilities in order that they confirm that sentences against those convicted are, indeed, being carried out.)

(Editor’s note: This blog contribution was edited for length.)

This entry was posted on Sunday, September 30th, 2007 at 10:40 am and is filed under Condoleezza Rice, Iraq, Middle East, Press, Rumors. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.