Very True.

What is to stop the Saudi's from saying we publicly that we cannot use their bases while at the same time they are secretly allowing us to use their bases. In fact, doing so might help them internally and externally if they played their cards correctly.

And besides, I still think the Sadam thing might be a ruse. There could be an unnamed target that has moved ahead of Sadam. But then the 1 year anniversary of 9/11/2001 is rapidly approaching. And Sadam (and Bin Ladin) seem to like anniversaries. What a great time to deliver them an anniversary present.

I don't think the Saudi's are stupid. They are doing their best to manage a bad situation. Hopefully, they are wise enough to exploit the current Mid-East turmoil to identify and eliminate some of the more radical elements within their sphere of influence.

Scott