Blair the diplomat

15 British naval seamen arrested, apparently in another country's territorial waters, leaving our PM, Blair, as the best chance of a quick them released, what does he say? He rushes in, brash and bold, demanding their unconditional immediate release! The response? an equal backlash from the other country, what a result Tony!

After nearly 10 years in the top job I would have expected Blair to know very well how to get the most out of situations! (perhaps save NATO + Milosevic's duel..)

This all leads me to wonder if creating an international spat wasn't actually the intention all along..? Bumping up the anti with Iran as they're already in the spotlight over: Uranium enrichment, allegedly helping insurgents in Iraq and sending Revolutionary Guard officers. However, Iran just attended a very successful regional conference in Iraq -- perhaps someone was looking for an excuse to end that cooperation? Lest us forget, the US and Iran both benefit from opposing each other, which neatly keeps the populace focused on something other than domestic policy; as the Power of Nightmares highlights.

Anyway, Cherie, if you're reading this, perhaps Tony could do a with a copy of How to Win Friends and Influence People!