Max Hastings in the Guardian
If George Bush is defeated in a fortnight, it may be possible to get the UN into the country, in a fashion that should have been done at the outset. Meanwhile, it must be right to do everything possible to ensure that elections in Iraq can be held in January.If the Americans need British help to achieve this, it seems right to consent. The choice seems now simple. Either we pack up and come home, or we work wholeheartedly to prevent a shambles. Anything between is for flat-earthers.
I was against the invasion of Iraq - not because I supported Saddam or thought he should stay in power, but because I thought the position was being manipulated by Bush for US geopolitical interests (by which I don't just mean 'its all about oil' - although that was I'm sure a factor).
However, we did invade and now for better or worse we are responsible for the country. To pull out now, as the disreputable bunch who call themselves Respect would have us do, would be utter betrayal. I've said it before and I will no doubt say it again - we failed the Iraqis under Bush Snr. To pull out now, when the country is so unstable, would be a double failure, ending any chance of moderate Islamic voices being heard for a generation or more.
