Wars and video games

---

The Republican Party is in so much trouble it may risk a major confrontation in the Middle East before half- term congressional elections in November. Republicans are far behind in the polls. Iraq has turned into a liability for President Bush and his party. According to a recent intelligence report, terrorist activities in Iraq escalated after the occupation, something President Bush has been refusing to acknowledge. A sex scandal featuring a key Republican congressman, Mark Foley, only made what was already bad worse.

Bob Woodward's recent book, State of Denial, casts the Bush administration in an unfavourable light. Woodward uncovers many of the administration's pitfalls, accusing it of misleading the public in the course of its so-called war on terror. This may explain why the US administration is desperate to shore up its flagging popularity. Two weeks ago, President Bush signed the Iran Freedom Support Act, which some say quietly sanctions the use of force against Tehran. And Washington has intensified its support to Iranian opposition groups seeking to bring down the prevailing regime.

Recently, Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad said that some Lebanese parties are encouraging the Americans to strike at Syria and occupy Damascus. Syria is not alone in suspecting Washington's intentions. The US administration has been trying to dismantle the Hamas government in Palestine. And when Condoleezza Rice met with eight Arab foreign ministers a few days ago, analysts said that the US secretary of state was trying to form a consensus on future arrangements in the region.

The current crisis of the Republican Party offers motive for dramatic actions in the Middle East. Mostly likely, Iran would be the first target, but Syria, Hizbullah and Hamas are all in the crosshairs. One can expect a variety of US-Iranian skirmishes on various fronts, perhaps setting the stage for a wider confrontation. Interestingly enough, computer companies on both sides are already marketing video games based on possible war scenarios. Today, it's just a game. But tomorrow, we may have to deal with the real thing.