Bush-Iraq exit strategy signalled by Blair

George Bush has been making noises in the annual State of the Union address recently about cutting fuel consumption and talking up renewable energy sources. In fact, essentially a complete reversal of the long term attitude. Lowering the requirement for oil imports has suddenly become important. This in itself suggests an exit strategy is being planned to get out of Iraq. If a US led invasion of Iran is on the agenda, this would seem logical as to engage in two theatres of war simultaneously is unthinkable. A face saving exercise is required and this fits the bill perfectly. Blame it on Iran and not the lethal 'error' that it was. The withdrawal of British troops will be highly significant for Blair as he hopes it will help to draw a line under Iraq as though it never happened. Bad mistake (not admitted) and let's put it all behind us. Obviously anxious to demonstrate that (some) British troops are coming home before he leaves Downing Street. Apparently, operation Sinbad (transfer of lead rôle to homegrown forces) is complete and has been successful, yet a substantial British force will remain at their permanent base. If it's been so successful and all has been fixed so that Blair can forget it all then why such an incomplete exit? Smells very bad, doesn't it? In fact it stinks as it always has. Just worse. Well, news for Blair: it will never be forgotten and even rewriting history in this era will never, ever change the legacy. He may put a smiley face on it all, but it will not go away. Ever. The chase for oil has not succeeded, so the American administration will have to rethink the future. Assuming there is one if the USA decides to take on the Iranians. In all our interests, of course. Blair to follow? Doubt it as he is off to the USA soon to make shedloads of money from his legacy. Who knows, the American people could still reject his presence... The breaking news that Blair is to announce a withdrawal of British troops (never too late or too soon) does tend to confirm a US withdrawal. Defence Secretary, Des Browne MP, mentioned a "collective decision with US". This indicates all on the same page and singing from the same hymn sheet. When questioned about redeployment, it seemed the tone faltered somewhat and suggested that troops may come home to Britain in the first instance, but could then be moved out to Afghanistan after a rest. I find it difficult to imagine that Blair would make any first move.