Letter: And turn off the lights

United Nations weapons inspector in Iraq, Scott Ritter, in his book, “Iraq Confidential,” recounts events before our invasion.

While the United Nations Special Commission (UNSCOM) was seriously attempting to find, but not finding, weapons of mass destruction, the CIA was conjuring up weapons of mass destruction and situations to exterminate Saddam Hussein. Ritter lamented that the CIA was a hindrance to UNSCOM’s work, and he became aware that the United States’ goal was Saddam’s demise. This was prior to 9/11 and America’s safety wasn’t involved.

“Iraq liberation” never received a congressional vote; Congress’ vote pertained only to weapons of mass destruction, of which Iraq had none, and the 9/11 terrorists, with whom Saddam had no connection. Nevertheless, it’s hard to imagine leadership so ignorant it couldn’t envision invasion’s inevitable results.

Regarding Iran, President Bush’s stance toward Iran was always belligerent, and our actions in the Middle East have been duplicitous, aggressive and threatening, seriously damaging our credibility in any negotiations.

Iran’s leaders have reiterated they don’t want war and seek legal nuclear energy only. We scoff at this, conjure up accusations, deny them respect and lay the groundwork for failure. We’re worse than useless — we’re igniters of a mutually destructive outcome.

Furthermore, if we’re not imperialists, why do we continually crave dominance in the Middle East, plan to build a nearly $1 billion embassy (largest in the world) and keep 14 permanent military bases in Iraq?

Our long-term Middle East bombings and occupations guarantee ongoing hatred and retaliation. Only our withdrawal can end our self-flagellation. It’s time we own the results of our immoral choices, control our greed and stop killing ourselves.

Jane Varner/Naples