This isn't exactly hypothetical, as that is what the vast majority of Iraqis want. For that matter, I think that Alawi has also spoken in highly negative terms about Israel's current expansion.

Do we have to stick around until the Iraqis decide to just forget about this, or can we leave once democratic institutions are in place in Iraq?

Now I would hope that the government of Israel, whether the Sharon government or anohter one, would be able to finally come to an agreement with the Palestinians, and thus remove this question from the concerns of the voters of Iraqi.

But do we have to stick around in Iraq until this happens?

What if the people of Iraq vote to stop oil sales to the US, the only country tolerating Israeli expansioninst activity? What if they demand payment in Euros instead of in dollars?

The reason why I'm re-posting this for the umpteenth time is because I'm real sure that you all have some calming words to share with everyone who has loved ones stuck over there in that quicksand, but apparently you've just seemed to miss the opportuity to share them earlier

awaiting your answers, oh Wise Ones
ep