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Office of Research
Issue Focus Foreign Media Reaction |
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Commentary from ... Europe Middle East East Asia |
| September 21, 2000 |
Iraq Claims Oil Theft By Kuwait, Awakening Memories Of 1990, 1979, 1972
Iraq's September 14 charge that Kuwait was stealing oil from fields on the Iraqi side of their border, so reminiscent of Baghdad's pre-1990 invasion rhetoric, prompted a flurry of Middle Eastern and European editorial commentary on the brinksman dictator's latest inflammatory statements. Arab commentary focused on the corrosive effects of chronic political tension in the Gulf and generally reflected the alignment of opinion during the Gulf War a decade ago. Kuwaitis were most adamant in condemning the Iraqi regime and Jordanians played their role as Baghdad's apologists. European columnists viewed Saddam's latest salvo through the lens of a budding oil crisis that some fear may short circuit global economic growth as in 1972 or 1979. Illustrative excerpts follow:
MIDDLE EAST ECHOES OF 1990: As in 1990, Kuwaiti and Jordanian writers viewed Iraq through opposite ends of the telescope. While a typical Kuwaiti column asserted that "it is very clear that the stability of the Gulf and Iraq's return to the Arab fold are both linked to the elimination of the Iraqi regime," recent Jordanian editorials absolved Baghdad of any blame for increased tensions in the Gulf. Amman's center-left, influential Al-Dustour contended that "Iraq's communiqué on its dispute with Kuwait did not include even an implicit military threat, yet the U.S. used it as a pretext to mobilize a campaign against [Iraq]." While articulating their own concerns about a perceived American zeal for military confrontation with Iraq, commentators in Egypt and several Gulf states more often expressed weariness and frustration with Iraq's dogged divisiveness. Cairo's pro-government Al Akhbar lamented, "Iraq does not give its friends a chance to support it; moreover, Iraq embarrasses them."
EU FEARS THAT 'EVIL SORCERER' SADDAM WILL LEVITATE OIL PRICES: European coverage of the renewed Gulf tensions focused almost exclusively on the possibility that the ever-erratic Saddam Hussein will push already-spiking crude oil prices even higher. As London's independent Financial Times put it, "Saddam Hussein's recent accusations against Kuwait and his calls on OPEC not to bow to U.S. pressures are exacerbating instability in oil markets." Most writers saw Saddam as sitting in the kind of trouble-making catbird seat he enjoys. Moscow's reformist Izvestiya noted that Iraq is "perhaps the last country that still has the potential to increase the production of 'black gold,'" but as Paris's left-of-center Liberation observed, "If the country decides to stop [production], the price of Brent [crude] will rapidly increase." With this situation in mind, Turkey's liberal/intellectual Yeni Binyil asserted that "if stability in oil markets is sincerely desired, then the embargo against Iraq should be decreased and lifted." Given the continuing U.S. commitment to Iraq sanctions, absent Baghdad's implementation of UN resolutions, no observers saw Saddam as getting the sanctions relief he is angling for. Oil market observers, therefore, fretted since, as Izvestiya said, "Saddam Hussein has an opportunity to play the part of an evil sorcerer...who would like to take revenge on the West for Desert Storm and for the sanctions. Even if the weapon of revenge is oil."
EDITOR: Stephen Thibeault
This survey is based on 48 reports from 13 countries, September 9- 21. Editorial excerpts are grouped by region; editorials from each country are listed from the most recent date.
KUWAIT: "Caught In A Pair of Pliers"
Shafeeq Al-Ghabra, Director of the Kuwait Information Office in Washington, wrote in independent Al-Rai Al-Aam (9/20): "The Kuwaiti and American positions, along with the wider Gulf position, have maintained their attempts to absorb the recent Iraqi escalation and avoid being swept away by the war of words. In other words, recent reactions were characterized by rationality based on the fact that the region is quite used to this series of crises that started in 1991."
"The Iraqi Agent"
Mohammed Musaed Al-Saleh wrote in independent Al-Qabas (9/19): "According to the 'oil for American and Western arms' theory, Iraqi threats will lead us to spend recent oil revenue on 'scrap' weapons. The Iraqi leadership is idiotically playing the role of an arms dealer promoting Western weapons. The regime is incapable of waging a war against neighboring countries unless its American and Western patrons want it to."
"The Iraqi Threats Campaign"
Dr. Masouma Al-Mubarak wrote in independent Al-Seyassa (9/19): "The Iraqi regime fears that the Security Council will lift the sanctions imposed on Iraq. If this happens, the regime would lose the excuse it used for the past ten years to win sympathy for the Iraqi people, something which the regime interprets as support for its policies. The Iraqi regime will work at maintaining these sanctions."
"The Iraqi Regime Causes Dissent"
Yacoub Yousef Al-Omar wrote in independent Al-Qabas (9/19): "The Iraqi regime's continued aggression and its suspicious military actions are the reason for the flights made by the allied planes. These flights are an attempt to monitor and control the regime's foolishness. The allies' planes never killed children or civilians. On the contrary, they are indirectly protecting the Iraqi people from the tyranny of the Iraqi regime."
"Who Is The Beneficiary From This Escalation"
Dr. Ayed Al-Manaa asserted in independent Al-Watan (9/18): "Israel is undoubtedly the greatest beneficiary (from this escalation.) Arab preoccupation with this campaign will save Israel from facing Arab and international pressure and present it with an opportunity to isolate the Palestinian negotiators and lead them to make further concessions."
"The Boogie War"
Mohammed Musaed Al-Saleh wrote in independent Al-Qabas (9/18): "The northern neighbor cannot be trusted. He may undertake a suicidal mission, especially following the Iraqi president's illness. Although we discount the possibility of aggression, the Kuwaiti leadership is still responsible for preparing for any emergency. It is necessary to train people to protect themselves as a precaution against any evil misdeed."
"Arabs, It Is Your Responsibility"
Soud Al-Samaka stated in independent Al-Qabas (9/16): "It is very clear that the stability of the
Gulf and Iraq's return to the Arab fold are both linked to the elimination of the Iraqi regime. Any attempts made to rehabilitate this regime are against the wishes and aspirations of the Iraqi people who want to get rid of a tyrannical regime that has caused them all manner of pain and suffering."
"Iraq's Series Of Accusations"
Abdul Mohsen Yousef Jamal wrote in independent Al-Qabas (9/16): "The Kuwaiti political message in response to Iraqi accusations should be balanced and clear, especially since Iraq alternates between making such threats and denying to have ever said them. This is why it is very important for Kuwait to maintain updated documentation of these threats and accusations to present them to Arab and international organizations to condemn the Iraqi regime."
"The Lying Industry"
Dr. Ayed Al-Manaa wrote in independent Al-Watan (9/16): "Although Iraqi lies are no longer popular, we would not put it past Saddam to commit a new act of foolishness. We doubt, however, if he would achieve the same results as he did in 1990.... The Iraqi regime's concocted crises are means of seeking a military confrontation whereby the regime recognizes it will undoubtedly be the only loser. What is important for the regime is to be the target of military strikes that it will shamelessly claim as victories."
JORDAN: "Tension Returns To The Gulf"
Leading columnist Tariq Masarwah commented in semi-official, leading Al-Ra'i (9/!9): "It is in the interest of the United States to keep the status quo in Iraq and the Gulf, while it is in Iraq's interest to change the situation. This raises a question: How can Iraq change the present situation? We do not believe that we can give Iraq the answer because it knows best; but we think that pleasing the United States is impossible. We have signed peace with Israel, normalized relations with it, accepted globalization, accepted free trade, and yet the United States is not satisfied. The only reason for befriending this peculiar giant is that its enmity is very hard."
"Oil For Peace"
Columnist Jawad Bashiti wrote in independent Al-Arab Al-Yawm (9/18): "Behind the escalating crisis [in the Gulf] is the rise of oil prices to a level that threatens world economic growth, and it will not be brought down by increased production, since Western governments refuse to reduce their taxes on oil products. Iraq has the right to cease production, which would push prices higher to a level where western countries would accept to lift the sanctions in return for Iraq's contribution in reducing oil prices. We hope that the Arab nation will raise their voices high enough to be heard by decision makers in Washington, that Arab oil should be exchanged for peace on Arab terms. Arab oil should be exchanged in return for the return of East Jerusalem to the Arabs."
"Mrs. Albright's Comment"
Jihad Al-Momani declared in independent Al-Arab Al-Yawm (9/18): "Behind the rise in oil prices were American companies, high taxes, and commissions. These monopolistic companies, which are either American or administered by Americans, have inflamed the international market with the story of oil shortages, while at the same time American diplomacy moved to ask its friends to raise production, perhaps even to dig horizontally across international borders, in order to provoke Iraq and push it into a trap where it attracts international hatred. That would be the pretext Washington needs to strike Iraq as the party responsible for the rise in oil prices."
"A New American Attempt To Fish In Gulf Waters"
Center-left, influential Al-Dustour declared (9/18): "Iraq's communiqué on its dispute with Kuwait did not include even an implicit military threat, yet the United States used it as a pretext to mobilize a campaign against that country. We call on the Arabs who were fooled ten years ago by the pretexts that Washington gave to justify its heinous aggression against Iraq and its people and to impose the siege that continues to this day, we call on them not to be misguided once again and not to fall for this new ploy that aims to achieve American electoral goals, and to justify continued American presence in the Gulf, as well as American hegemony on the whole region. It also aims to prolong the iniquitous siege that has no justification."
"The Duty To Abort The Military Strike Against Iraq"
Columnist Mazen Al-Saket commented in center-left, influential Al-Dustour (9/18): "Iraq and all those who care for it, as well as all the Arabs who stand to be hurt by a new military aggression against Iraq, have a fundamental duty to abort this planned aggression. Success in this mission will be another step forward towards the goal of dismantling the siege and bringing the question of Iraq out of the American hegemony."
EGYPT: "Using Iraq As An Excuse For High EU Oil Prices"
Columnist Salama Ahmed Salama commented in pro-government Al Ahram (9/20): "The Kuwaiti minister of oil said that his country, the United States, Britain, France and Iran are concerned because Iraq does not want to implement UN Resolution 1284. His statements were made amidst an escalation designed to create a crisis in the Gulf region. This escalation is supposed to be the excuse for the current claims that the international oil market is unstable. This gives western governments the excuse they want so as not to decrease the price of oil by decreasing high taxes imposed for reasons that have to do with their budgets. Also so that western governments can blame the oil producing countries for the oil price increases that burden European consumers."
"Iraq Drains Arab Wealth While Promoting U.S. Hegemony"
Editor-in-chief Galal Dowidarat pro-government Akhbar held (9/19): "There is no explanation for the tension created by Saddam's statements and by threats to Kuwait, except that Saddam seeks with all his might to drain the energies of Arab Gulf countries and deprive them of a chance to catch their breath after the negative results of the Gulf War.... There is no explanation for what is happening now except that his statements are targeted to deprive the Gulf countries and Iraq of any increase in their income resulting from the rise in the price of oil in world markets. This increase concurs and is compatible with the profits reaped by the industrial countries from selling their products. Iraq seems to want to give this additional income as a gift to the United States and the Western countries for their protection of the Gulf area from the apparition of any future Iraqi aggression.... Iraq's role and mission have been defined in this draining process of Arab wealth. It issues threats, but it does not have the capabilities to implement them. This allows the United States to send Kuwait and the Gulf countries a long list of expenses and assignments needed for this protection. Each bill would be a few billion every time. Washington must be very happy with these statements, and must have welcomed them, because they convey additional income and hegemony in this strategically, economically and politically important area."
"Unfinished Business: Gulf War Prisoners, Iraq Sanctions"
Pro-government Al-Ahram commented (9/19): "There are reasons for tension in the Gulf area, many of which stem to Gulf War II. These reasons could be summed up with the prisoners of war, missing in action, and sanctions imposed on Iraq. What is certain is that the issue of the prisoners and those who are lost could be settled by a great amount of objectivity, transparency, and the desire to close the case. Also, the sanctions issue has become a highly provocative matter to people of conscience. Within this context, through an Arab umbrella or an international umbrella, Iraqi is asked to reveal the details of the issue of the prisoners and missing, so that this case can be closed, permanently. As for the other issue, according to the words of the foreign minister of the emirates, 'work should be accomplished to find a way to lift the sanctions imposed on Iraq.'"
"The Atmosphere Of 1990"
Pro-government Al Akhbar commented (9/18): "Iraq does not give its friends a chance to support it. Moreover, Iraq embarrasses them. A few days ago, Egypt from the platform of the UN asked that sanctions imposed on Iraq be lifted. Egypt's foreign minister said this at the UN and many other countries followed the same example or are about to. A week or so later, Iraq surprised the world by saying that Kuwait is stealing Iraqi oil. Quickly, Kuwait denied that claim and asked observers from all over the world to come and see that the Iraqi claims are untrue. This was a chance for the United States and Britain to confront these Iraqi threats against Kuwait and to Saudi Arabia to continue the sanctions. These days, the Gulf area has the same atmosphere as that of 1990, when Iraq accused Kuwait of stealing their oil from the Ramilla oil field. Now, Iraq has returned to repeat the same old story and this only increases the suffering of the Iraqi people."
"The Status Quo Serves The Rulers Of Iraq"
Kamal Abdul Raouf noted in pro-government weekly Akhbar El Youm (9/16): "Human rights organizations in France and a number of EU countries are looking for a plane to fill with food and medicine for the Iraqis, especially the children who have paid an extremely high price as a result of U.S. and British sanctions. However, Saddam returns to the language of challenge and accusations. He has forgotten that he is the one responsible for all that has happened in the Gulf, all the fragmentation, and the collapse of the Arab world. Saddam declared a week ago that he gave orders to his troops to bring down American and British planes. Then, his epresentative submitted a strange request to the Arab League, asking it to pressure Saudi Arabia and Kuwait to stop their support for U.S. and British violations of Iraqi air space. Then, I was sure that the rulers of Iraq play the role of the fifth column in the Arab nation. The regime in Iraq does not want the Iraqi crisis to end. They don't want division among the Arabs to fade away. They don't want the British and American troops to leave the Gulf. The status quo serves the rulers of Iraq and serves the interests of the United Staets, Britain and Israel in the Gulf."
QATAR: "Extinguishing Fire"
Semi-official arrayah editorialized (9/18): "The Gulf does not need a new round of escalation as much as genuine efforts to quell tension.... The current escalation can be suppressed by stopping provocative remarks.... Kuwait and Iraq should have taken into consideration the recent change in tune at the United Nations and a leaning towards the lifting of sanctions. On the other side, Albright has stated that the United States is willing to use force if Iraq doesn't allow the international inspectors (back in). The escalation of tension will justify Washington's use of force and will force the region back down a dark tunnel. Iraq must stop this language of terror which is hardenening Kuwait's position. We understand Kuwait's eagerness to feel safe but Iraq has the same need (for safety)."
"Iraq And American Provocation"
Semi-official Al-Watan held (9/18): "The latest U.S. military threats against Iraq may or may not be serious. The Iraqi government, however, should be vigilant in these situations so as not to let Washington have its way. U.S. officials such as Secretary Cohen have interpreted Iraq's latest allegations against Kuwait as a direct threat...and interpreted that these allegations could result in a military attack against Kuwait. This is an exaggeration and Washington knows very well that Iraq's military capability is almost nil. However, Washington's threats are a prelude to another matter. Observers believe that Iraq will compound the problem of the turbulent oil market in the west by keeping Iraqi oil out of the market. If this premise is correct, then the Iraqi leadership is really acting foolishly because the current oil upheaval has had a mild affect on the United States, but any further escalation on oil prices will deeply hurt the european countries. These are the countries that have been sympathetic to Iraq and have lobbied extensively on its behalf to lift sanctions. In addition, high crude oil prices will have dire consequences on the economies of the developing, non-oil producing countries, which are also key to Iraq's cause."
"Threats And Allegations. The Atmosphere Prior To The Storm"
Semi-official As-Sharq published a comment by Hutham Abdul Hameed (9/18): "Although a decade has passed, we find the Iraqi regime trying to push the region to the brink--as if we need another war and more exploitation. Ironically, Iraq's escalations come at a time when light has just begun to emerge at the end of the tunnel. Iraq has reacted to current international initiatives to end sanctions by launching a campaign of allegations against the Arab League Secretary General. This is being carried out at the same time that the Egyptian foreign minister is lobbying for the a lifting of sanctions. Even the UAE, which was among the first GCC states to allow the Iraqi embassy to re-open on its soil was not spared. Iraq began to launch accusations against Kuwait as if it wants to enter into a new adventure--similar to the 'the mother of all battles' and its sister, 'the mother of all defeats.' Iraq has paid heavily, but so has the whole region. The regime's attempts to return the region to square one are all based on miscalculations. Kuwait will not be invaded again and the American fleet is not just on a tour of the Gulf. President Clinton, who is preparing to leave the White House, does not want to leave it broken by Arabs, particularly in the aftermath of his defeat on the peace process."
SYRIA: "Arab Duty To Eliminate Suspicions, Restore Confidence, Abort Foreign Intervention"
Hanan Hamad commented in government-owned Tishreen (9/18): "Ten years after the Gulf War, it has become clear that the situation in Iraq is linked to the U.S.policy in the region that aims to retain tension as this serves its vital oil interests. The United States raises the tempo of tension any time it wishes in accordance with its regional, domestic and international policies which certainly do not coincide with the Arab interests which have been out of the framework of a U.S. policy that only takes Israel's security and superiority into consideration. Hence, the importance of a joint Arab responsibility to put an end to foreign intervention taking into consideration that any new Anglo-American military action will send efforts to achieve Arab solidarity back to square one, will increase Arab frustration and will foil Arab and international efforts to lift the sanctions on the Iraqi people. The Iraqi government is responsible for not pacifying the situation with the Gulf States and making use of international initiatives to create an appropriate atmosphere for removing sanctions by demonstrating flexibility with these initiatives and increasing cooperation with the UN.... The world community and the permanent members of the Security Council have to increase confidence and credibility in a way that deals with the Iraqi crisis. This will make Iraq overcome its suspicions about the international resolutions in the wake of its bitter experience with UNSCOM and the intersection of U.S. policy with Security Council policies."
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES: "Iraq Forgets Its Friends"
Abu Dhabi-based Al-Ittihad lamented (9/19): "The reaction by the Iraqi media to the UAE's position was short-sighted and lacking in objectivity and the ability to understand others. It was unexpected from Iraq, because the UAE has never stopped calling for lifting the sanctions and ending the suffering of Iraqis that has lasted for ten years. UAE was one of the first countries to frankly and clearly call for the restoration of Iraq to the Arab fold.... It is clear that Iraq forgets its friends and does not see or hear anything except that which spoils its relations with others. It also insists on destroying its relations with the countries that sympathize with it and have its best interest in mind. That was apparent in the Iraqi foreign minister's disdain towards the Qatari plan, which is a laudable attempt by a brother state to alleviate the suffering of the Iraqi people."
"Baghdad And The Edge Of The Precipice"
Sharjah-based, nationalist Al-Khaleej editorialized (9/17): "What advantage will the Iraqi people secure from Baghdad's policy of brinkmanship, marked by a return to the language of threats and warnings, the same language which led to the 1990 catastrophe and other consequences which set the Arab region back decades? Why escalation at this time, while America prepares for its elections and both presidential candidates compete to collect winning cards?... If Washington seeks someone to put the match of the region close to the fire, so as to serve its arrangements which also serves Israel...why does the Iraqi regime volunteer to open the doors and windows, again?... Where is the interest of Iraq?... There is a new gamble in action...which will not be in the interests of Iraq or the Arab region, but rather serve those who wish evil for the Arabs and who want to extend their stay in the region, until the American-Israeli plans have been completed.... If Baghdad is betting again on the Russian, French or Chinese stands against the American will, it is yet again deluded.... This does not mean the perpetuation of the murderous sanctions on the Iraqi people, but rather the exertion of greater effort, and Arab efforts in particular...aimed at the complete application of the relevant international resolutions, an end to the sanctions, and an end to the benefits reaped by Washington and Tel Aviv from every Iraqi escalation. The goals of Saddam's movement can quickly become a fire, which will be costly and even more costly to put out."
"'No' To Escalation"
Dubai's business-oriented Al-Bayan observed (9/17): "The current escalation between Iraq, Kuwait and the United States is not in the interests of the two nations or the region. The war of words and accusations renews the atmosphere of escalation and may...set the region on fire and drag it into another war.... The Arabs must intervene and defuse the situation before it explodes. Defusing the crisis now is much better than leaving it to explode.... Iraq also must stop threatening and seek to have the sanctions lifted through the complete implementation of UN resolutions. Kuwait has the right to regain its rights and prisoners by all legal means.... U.S. warnings to Iraq cannot be ignored; they may push iraq to escalate and therefore give washington a justification to launch military action, putting the whole region into a new vortex that will only increase Iraq's crises."
"More Important Than Provocation"
Ahmed Al-Dayeen wrote in independent Al-Rai Al-Aam (9/16): "We have to admit that the Kuwaiti position regarding Iraq is weak, confused and isolated, even among the Arab brothers and friends. It is very important to seriously re-evaluate our political and media messages and to revise our methods for dealing with the Iraqi issue as a whole, not only in response to the Iraqi regime's provocations. And because every game needs two players, therefore, we can not throw the ball only into the American court. The major player, without whom the game could not begin, is Saddam Hussein, who has repeatedly enjoyed exciting the Americans with moves, training and maneuvers that do nothing except give his friends the justification to renew a state of tension in the region and scare their people with the Iraqi bogeyman, who can be only restrained by American military might. Therefore, Saddam continues his heedless maneuvers, insulting his neighbors and brothers and boasting about the negative impact of the sanctions on his country, which are undoubtedly helping to cement his rule. Only the Iraqi people suffer, while the entire region anticipates Saddam's next target...in the framework of the game which he and his American friends continue to play."
"Saddam Hussein's Game"
Abu Dhabi-based, semi-official Al-Ittihad editorialized (9/14): "Once again, Saddam Hussein and his fierce friends in Washington continue to practice their favorite game of escalating tension in the region, reminding [the Iraqi] people and the entire world that the tragedy which started in the fall of 1990 is not yet finished.... Although Pentagon officials have not confirmed the mobilization of more troops, preparations indicate that a new mobilization of U.S. troops is imminent, that these troops may arrive at any time, and that the justifications [for them] being prepared. The high price tag is also provided for, in light of the hike in oil prices, which has outraged the Americans and their Western allies."
BRITAIN: "Crude Power"
The liberal Guardian editorialized (9/21): "Briefing the Senate armed services committee in Washington this week, Walter Slocombe, under-secretary of defense for policy, noted that military preparedness was just part of the costly U.S. effort: The Clinton administration was using 'the full range of tactics,' including economic sanctions, diplomacy, intelligence-gathering and support for anti-regime groups. This was the policy of containment. And it was well worth it, argued Edward Walker, an assistant secretary of state. Iraq remained 'dangerous, unreconstructed and defiant' and would pose a threat to regional security as long as Saddam held sway. It fell to Senator Edward Kennedy to ask the obvious question: 'Who's got who in a box here?' And it is not difficult to supply the answer.
"Nine years after Operation Desert Storm, the rules of the game have changed but official Washington seems not to have noticed. These days Saddam does not even make a pretense of cooperating with the UN, refusing to allow its weapons inspectors to return while finding ever more ways, with growing Russian and regional connivance, to circumvent sanctions. Baghdad no longer angles for a gradual, negotiated end to its international ostracism. On the contrary, it rejects outright the UNSC's latest resolution, confident that big hitters like France and China would rather see an end to the whole sorry saga. Sensing the West's weakness, exacerbated by U.S. electoral distractions, Saddam uses this moment to renew his threats, explicit and implicit, against Kuwait and Saudi Arabia in mocking defiance of all that sophisticated American firepower. But it is a far cruder weapon that may now furnish Saddam with the killer punch he needs to break out of 'containment': oil. Put simply, he has it, lots of it, and the United States and the West need it, more than ever. Kuwaiti oil started the Gulf war; Iraqi oil may finally finish it. As the spot price spirals, Saddam is no longer playing for advantage; he is playing to win. So who is in the box now, Walter?"
"Iraq's Weapon"
The independent Financial Times editorialized (9/20): "Saddam Hussein's recent accusations against Kuwait and his calls on OPEC not to bow to U.S. pressures are exacerbating instability in oil markets. Given the Iraqi dictator's unpredictable nature, it is not surprising the rhetoric is being taken seriously. Fears that Saddam may attempt another excursion into Kuwait are probably exaggerated. More dangerous, however, is the suspicion that he is using threats against Kuwait to emphasize his oil influence. A disruption in Iraqi oil could create a panic in the markets, even if it might eventually be offset by higher output in Saudi Arabia. True, the current climate of high production at high prices would appear to suit Baghdad perfectly, especially by encouraging the smuggling business. Showing responsible behavior on oil policy also could be an opportunity for Saddam to prove he can be part of the international community. But he appears, nonetheless, to be waving the oil weapon to achieve political gains. Oil has given him a valuable chance to be a nuisance during a U.S. presidential campaign.... There has never been an easy way of dealing with Saddam. But there are lessons to be drawn from previous Iraq crises. Most important is that the Iraqi leader tends to create trouble when he senses that UN Security Council divisions on Iraq are deepening.... Security Council members must sit down and rethink Iraqi policy. They must produce a coherent and united message to send to Saddam. The stalemate between the UN and Baghdad is dangerous and it has lasted too long."
"Oil Price Is New Weapon For Warlike Saddam"
The conservative Daily Telegraph reported (9/19): "Rising oil prices are giving Saddam Hussein an economic windfall and a burst of bellicose confidence that is raising military tension in the Gulf. He has renewed saber-rattling accusations that Kuwait is 'stealing' crude from oil fields close to the border with Iraq--an echo of claims that preceded his 1990 invasion of Kuwait. He has also increased public criticism of Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The belligerence of Iraq has helped to send crude prices soaring amid fears that Saddam could disrupt the flow of oil--either by undermining Kuwait's production or by cutting off Iraq's supply. Washington and London had been bracing themselves for the possibility of renewed confrontation with Iraq as America becomes distracted by its presidential election. And as Europe is torn by protests over fuel prices, the fear now is that Iraq will cut off the flow of crude. The West needs Iraqi oil and analysts say any reduction in its exports could send prices soaring even higher. But British officials say it is unlikely Saddam would wield the oil weapon for fear of losing income."
FRANCE: "Saddam Hussein Blows Hot And Cold"
Right-of-center Les Echos commented (9/21). "The leader finds a matchless means to remind the countries which banished him that his country has the largest reserves in the world and by playing with its daily production he may bring happiness or disaster to humanity."
"Oil Crisis Not Helpful For A Clinton Successor"
Alexandra Geneste observed in right-of-center France Soir (9/21): "A petroleum crisis in the middle of a presidential campaign would not help Bill Clinton's [choice as] successor."
"U.S. Campaign Does Not Allow U.S. To Take Decisive Actions"
Claude Lorieux held in right-of-center Le Figaro (9/21): "The presidential campaign does not allow the United States to take decisive actions, and Iraq is aware of that."
"The Barrel Still Rises, Saddam Hussein Growls"
Left-of-center Liberation observed (9/20): "Nobody seriously believes in a possible war, but some fear Saddam Hussein may use oil as a weapon to end the embargo which affects his country.... According to the 'oil for food' program, Iraq produces three million barrels a day and sells part of it to the international markets. If the country decides to stop everything, the price of the Brent will rapidly increase. During this time, the United States gets worried. 'Thirty-eight dollars a barrel would be dangerously high,' said Bill Richardson, the Secretary for Energy, also threatening, 'The president will not hesitate to take the necessary measures to protect the American people.' But for the time being, the President would rather wait. Last night, at a press meeting, Bill Clinton said, they will need 'several days,' to measure the impact of the OPEC decisions."
GERMANY: "Saddam's Price Increase"
Right-of-center Frankfurter Allgemeine suggested in an editorial (9/20): "The dictator is using rising oil prices and Western protests to announce his return as a regional player. It is easy to guess what advantages he hopes to gain from hidden threats and alarming statements: concessions with regard to the sanctions and the domestic consolidation of his regime. In the process, Saddam is helping those interested in high oil prices. However, he cannot seriously expect that the United States, despite current oil prices and their impact on the economy, will simply keep still if he continues to heighten tensions. Saddam should have learned this by now. But the fact that he is still capable of causing trouble does not really speak in favor of the West's Iraq policy."
ITALY: "Oil And Foreign Policy"
An editorial in provocative, classical liberal Il Foglio held (9/20): "It was not simple to harvest the fruits of victory in 1992 by eliminating Saddam's dictatorship: a weak government in Baghdad would have perhaps strengthened the potential threats from Iran. But the prolonged blockade of Iraq has reduced the offer of oil, with special damage to Europe, while it has not produced effects on the political-military level. In the ultimate analysis, the albeit sacrosanct American choice to intervene and then to impose the embargo, in the absence of more articulate initiatives aimed at overthrowing Saddam Hussein, has strengthened the shaky power of Saddam's family by affecting the standard of life of the Iraqi population."
"Saddam Waves The Flag To Show That He Exists"
Alberto Negri observed in leading, business-oriented Il Sole-24 Ore (9/19): "As oil prices go up again and the Israeli-Palestinian peace process is stuck over Jerusalem, the Baghdad dictator reminds the West, the Arab world and Washington that Iraq still exists. Every time an electoral campaign approaches in the United States, Saddam cannot resist the temptation to join the candidates and try to restore attention to the issue of the sanctions and create embarrassment for the Administration.... Iraq is at the center of a complicated international mix of politics, diplomacy and oil."
"New Accusations For Kuwait, Saddam Alarm Returns"
Jerusalem correspondent Enrico Franceschini wrote in left-leaning, influential La Repubblica (9/18): "The alarm in the Gulf countries grows by the day. Diplomatic observers and analysts believe that Saddam wants to exploit tension with Kuwait simply to make oil prices increase even more on the international markets. In this way, he could blackmail the West and hope that the United Nations will review and abolish the 1990 sanctions against Iraq. And even if this is only an umpteenth bluff by the Iraqi president, his enemies are taking him very seriously. After an initial warning by Secretary Albright, yesterday it was the turn of U.S. Defense Secretary Cohen.... As for Kuwait, its reaction oscillates between a display of self-confidence and panic.... It is not clear, in sum, how the new 'Desert Storm' may conclude--whether with a military conflict or a diplomatic mediation that will manage to satisfy the interests of all the parties involved."
"Saddam Threatens, The United States Is 'Ready To React'"
Centrist, top-circulation Corriere della Sera opined (9/18): "Kuwait's appeal to the international community was immediately picked up by the United States, an interested defender of Kuwait and oil routes. U.S. Defense Secretary Cohen declared that 'Anglo-American troops in the Gulf are ready to respond to any threats.'... While Washington barks, the Kremlin--always its antagonist in the Gulf area--plays the card of détente. A special plane yesterday took a Russian oil delegation to Baghdad. The flight could be considered a violation of UN resolutions against Iraq.... The Russians and, to a lesser extent the French, aim at a softening of UN sanctions. Washington, with the support of Great Britain, disagrees and asks the Iraqi regime to allow inspections of its arsenals: The Americans fear that Baghdad may be hiding projects to build weapons of mass destruction."
RUSSIA: "The Iraq Dilemma"
Yelena Suponina and Maxim Maximov wrote in reformist Vremya Novostei (9/20): "Meanwhile, the West is finding it increasingly difficult to act tough with regard to Baghdad. Oil prices continue to rise and Iraq is today perhaps the last country that still has the potential to increase the production of 'black gold.' All the other countries are working at the limit of their capacity. But to allow Iraq to sell more oil to bring down world prices would mean to loosen the sanctions regime. Even if Washington is ready for it, such a move on the eve of the presidential election would be near suicide."
"Oil Weapon"
Vladimir Dunayev observed in reformist Izvestiya (9/20): "Neither America nor Europe want to see another war in the Persian Gulf. Fighting in the region would put paid to any hopes for stable oil prices. And in this case the people in European countries will hardly confine themselves to non-violent blocking of cities and roads. Besides, a war with Iraq would come at a very awkward time for the United States because all thoughts in Washington today are about the upcoming presidential election. So, Baghdad has nothing to fear, unless, of course, it suddenly decides to send its tanks against its neighbors. So, Saddam Hussein has got an opportunity to play the part of an evil sorcerer, and not a local but a global one. To be sure, it is not Iraq alone that dictates market prices. But Saddam Hussein is one of those who would like to take revenge on the West for Desert Storm and for the sanctions. Even if the weapon of revenge is oil."
"Hussein Is Theirs, But Fuel Is More Important"
Alexander Reutov wrote in reformist, business-oriented Kommersant (9/20): "The United States has called on the UN Security Council to create an international tribunal for Iraq.... For several years the United States, with active assistance of the Iraqi opposition, has been carefully gathering all the facts that may be of interest to the judges of the future tribunal.... Given such evidence a guilty verdict of the tribunal (if it is created) is a foregone conclusion. However, the idea of establishing a tribunal for Iraq will most probably meet with little support among the remaining members of the Security Council. Russia, France, China and a number of other countries are already signing contracts with Baghdad for the shipment of equipment, oil extraction and other projects that promise millions in profits. Moscow and Paris speak openly about the need to lift, or at least ease, the sanctions against Iraq. And the setting up of a tribunal is the last thing they wish to see. Washington is aware of this. So, for starters, it proposes to set up a panel of experts to investigate the criminal activities of Hussein and the people around him. Its decisions will not be legally binding and will be advisory in character."
"No Fall In World Oil Prices As Sought By U.S."
Alexander Reutov wrote in reformist, business-oriented Kommersant (9/19): "Only last week Iraq accused Kuwait of illegally extracting oil on Iraqi fields and threatened to use all available means to defend its natural resources from being plundered. It is not clear whether the Kuwaitis really steal Iraqi oil. But what is known for certain is that Iraq doesn't have the resources and the forces to protect itself. So, there will be no war in the Persian Gulf in the near future. But such are the ways of the market that even a mythical threat of a military clash has pushed oil prices up. Fuel was added to the fire when U.S. Defense Secretary William Cohen said that Washington would respond to any military action against their allies in the Persian Gulf. But an American military action against Iraq is unlikely. It would provoke another leap in oil prices which is not in the interest of the United States. Besides, each American military action of this kind has led to a groundswell of support for Hussein inside Iraq and the condemnation of Washington militarism. In any case Saddam Hussein has managed to achieve one thing: There is no prospect for a fall in world oil prices sought by the United States."
TURKEY: "The Iraq Factor"
Mensur Akgun averred in liberal/intellectual Yeni Binyil (9/20): "If stability in oil markets is sincerely desired, then the embargo against Iraq should be decreased and lifted. Otherwise, Iraq will be using the current situation as a chance to enhance the crisis in the world economy... It seems Iraq is now waiting for the results of the U.S. presidential election to start using the 'oil card' in its hand."
"Tension In The Gulf"
Zafer Atay contended in economic-political Dunya (9/20): "Along with the current war of nerves with the West, Saddam is also playing in the international economic field. Oil prices have gone up dramatically after OPEC's decision to limit oil production. While the United States is especially pressuring Saudi Arabia, UAE and Kuwait to increase the oil quotas, Saddam calls on OPEC to resist the superpowers. By pursuing this approach, Saddam not only is encouraging the radical ones in OPEC, like Libya and Iran, but is also giving a message to the West. The message is: The embargo should be lifted because if Iraq starts producing oil, the oil market crisis will significantly decrease."
SOUTH KOREA: "Tensions Rising In The Gulf"
Won Jae-Yun asked in conservative Segye Ilbo (9/20): "Will the tensions between Iraq and Kuwait lead to another war in the Gulf? With the United States vowing to take any action necessary should Iraq do anything, the air of war is building in the region.... For the moment, however, an Iraqi preemptive attack against Kuwait is unlikely. That is because Saddam Hussein appears to be more interested in getting rid of the economic sanctions placed against his country than in engaging in a war against his neighbor. Iraq's domestic situation is not good enough to wage a war, either. The economic sanctions, now in place for ten years, have literally destroyed the country's economic structure as well as its military capabilities.... As an alternative, Iraq could stop oil exports, a prospect that could throw Europe's economy, and then the world economy into chaos. Or it could continue threatening its neighbors, destabilizing oil prices. This possibility could lead to a military conflict between the
West and Iraq."
"Provocation Against UN Sanctions"
Lee Yun-jung wrote in moderate Hankook Ilbo (9/19): "Russia's biggest airline company is said to be opening a branch office in Baghdad next month, and Jordan has already reconfirmed its intention of resuming operation of commercial air flights with Iraq. In addition, the United States has come under increasing criticism for having banned Iraq and also Libya from exporting oil, especially in light of the current oil price crisis. All these will further bolster the position of Iraq, which will not stop trying to have the sanctions against it lifted, even if that means taking some provocative actions."
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