Yes, he is posturing, but you assume for the worst. It's possible. It is also possible, and as evidence will back, that Saddam's regime requires this counter-posturing. He requires a firm hand, and he requires a show of undeniable force, with all avenues of counter-tact blocked. He needs to not only know that the world is serious about him and his activities, but that the world will stand up to him with at least the same determination that he would press toward his neighboring states.

Saddam requires the unwavering posture of our CinC. Saddam requires the troop movements surrounding his nation. Saddam requires the media-knowledge of forces being trained to battle him. He needs this. Anything less is a lost debate.

Dan