The dictator business isn't all peaches and cream, it is one of the most hazardous of occupations, with many (probably fair to say "most") dictators meeting a bad end.
Re the first war, our ambassador gave him no reason to believe that we would try to oust him if he invaded Kuwait. Once there, he had to follow the Official Dictator's Manual of Practices and Procedures, which clearly states that turning tail based upon a threat, or any display of fear or weakness for that matter, is hazardous to your tenure as Grand Poobah.
However, he did refrain from using gas against US troops in both wars, which indicates he is sufficiently rational not to cross a line that would result in certain death.
"Or his willingness to allow us to stomp him again this time, rather than fully cooperating with the inspectors?"
What more could he have done to prove he was not in possession of banned weapons?
"Plus, you may consider it rational to behave in a wanton manner against your fellow man, but I do not."
Then I advise you not to enter into the dictatorship business, as behaving in a wanton manner against your fellow man is a basic requirement. |
