Fantasy Time

PRESIDENT Bush’s recent pronouncements on the Middle East and Secretary Powell’s visit there no doubt reflected a well-intentioned attempt at peace-making. Lack of moral clarity, however, has brought to the surface fantasies rife in the Arab world. Caught up in the events of each day, the secretary of state has had to shift from one foot to the other and back again.

Israeli armor has closed in on Palestinian militants in Jenin and Nablus? This won’t do, Powell had no choice but to say, the Israelis must end their operation “without delay” as President Bush decreed, or sometime soon, or anyhow as soon as possible. However couched, Powell’s gnomic utterances publicly set him against Prime Minister Sharon. But next minute a photo-call shows him and Sharon together.

About the Author

David Pryce-Jones

David Pryce-Jones (1936–2025) was a British author and commentator and served as a senior editor of National Review.

PRESIDENT Bush’s recent pronouncements on the Middle East and Secretary Powell’s visit there no doubt reflected a well-intentioned attempt at peace-making. Lack of moral clarity, however, has brought to the surface fantasies rife in the Arab world. Caught up in the events of each day, the secretary of state has had to shift from one foot to the other and back again.

Israeli armor has closed in on Palestinian militants in Jenin and Nablus? This won’t do, Powell had no choice but to say, the Israelis must end their operation “without delay” as President Bush decreed, or sometime soon, or anyhow as soon as possible. However couched, Powell’s gnomic utterances publicly set him against Prime Minister Sharon. But next minute a photo-call shows him and Sharon together.