Is he combative, defiant and or sending signals?

By Ted Weaver

In case anyone hasn’t noticed, Saddam is a lot more than just agitated. Reading some of his comments and watching his body language, it appeared as though there is a lot more going on than just observing the actions of a trapped rat. Definitely more than the basic survival instincts involved.

One will never forget that Saddam ruled through fear. Which his regime methodically instilled on its citizens through the use of terror and torture. Some of the statements Saddam made to the judge like this one in particular struck me, “Why would you behave in a manner that we might call hasty later on?” It seemed to me Saddam was actually saying “if this new government fails, I‘ll be back, and you're history buddy“. Courtroom observers have stated that Saddam seemed to be in charge at times.

Make no mistake, Saddam wasn’t only hiding for his life, he was helping to direct guerilla operations against the coalition forces, and make it so miserable for the coalition by killing and maiming large numbers of troops that we would retreat. Somewhat similar in nature to what happened in Viet Nam.

Saddam learned many years ago how to use the cameras and video. And yesterday when he was arraigned, it was no different. The multitude of facial expressions, the bulging eyes and intimidating like statements and gestures, it became clear that Saddam was trying to intimidate the court and rile up the supporters. This is just the sort of thing that will do, just what he intended it to do. Of what degree remains to be seen. What concerns me is that of the Sunni Triangle region, like that of Fallujah.

His actions seemed to be that he believes the insurgency will continue. Now whether he is bluffing or knows something of a long term plan and or is having delusion of grandeur are good questions. If I had to take an educated guess, I’d say that he believes this insurgency will continue.

Then on another related topic, he seemed to know a little too much about current events. He is definitely getting news from somewhere. I wondered if he has access to a TV or radio. If Saddam is left to, he will turn this trial into a circus.

I was really surprised that the interim government wanted to start to try him and not wait for the elected government to undertake the whole show. Personally, I wouldn’t have wanted even a slightest suggestion that Saddam’s trial was slanted by an interim government. The message that it could send to the triangle could be construed as being inflammatory and could have costly ramifications. Maybe that is what Saddam is banking on. On the other hand, for reasons unknown, the right decision to start the process to try him by the interim government may be the correct approach. Perhaps this will give the Iraqi’s a little more hope for the future. Only time will tell.

I’ve observed Saddam work things before during photo ops and video. And believe me, he knows how to do it. I’m seriously beginning to wonder if releasing large numbers of photographs of him on trial is wise. Similarly, his flaming like statements. I was always one to believe in a strategy of defusing rather than inciting in certain types of situations. As is the case here. 7/02/2004