Washington comes up with something new: “The Bush administration has devised a strategy to declare victory in Iraq even if Saddam Hussein or key lieutenants remain at large and fighting continues in parts of the country, officials said yesterday. The concept of a ‘rolling’ victory contemplates a time — not yet determined — when U.S. forces control significant territory and have eliminated a critical mass of Iraqi resistance. U.S. military commanders would establish a base of operations, perhaps outside Baghdad, and assert that a new era has begun. Even then, tens of thousands of U.S. soldiers would remain to help maintain order and provide humanitarian assistance.” (link)
So first it’s all about WMDs and then - as those WMDs just won’t show up - it’s all about liberating Iraqis and then - as those happy Iraqis won’t show up - it’s evil Saddam Hussein who, we were told just a few days ago, was even worse than Hitler and now - as Saddam Hussein just won’t show up - it could be over even if Saddam Hussein was still running around. I wonder what’s next.

PS: I’m glad they found Baghdad. At least something they promised was there! Phew!