Blair & Bush: Battling On
When George Bush meets with Republican Party leaders at Camp David today, their joint aim will be to devise a new battle strategy for the war ahead - not the war in Iraq, but the looming war and constitutional crisis that is shaping up between the White House and the new Democrat-controlled Congress over the president's determination to send more troops into Iraq.
Bush's Unwavering Ally
Just as he did in 2002 - when the White House decided to target Saddam with or without the legal authority of the United Nations - Bush can rely on an unwavering ally in the shape of Tony Blair. Under fire from senior figures inside his own party, embattled by hostile public opinion which calls for troop withdrawal, and with generals openly questioning the sense of sending more troops into Baghdad, Bush will take comfort in pointing to Blair's words last week on board HMS Albion in Plymouth: "Retreat in the face of this threat from terrorist enemies would be a catastrophe."
Defining and Defending Actions
Blair's pro-war foreign policy speech may have been the first of his "farewell tour" lectures scheduled between now and his chosen departure date, likely to be around June or July. These lectures, according to some, are Blair's attempt to pre-empt historians, defining and defending his actions in Iraq and elsewhere, defending his close alliance with the US, and offering a word of warning for any successor who chooses to do things differently.
Blair: President's Antidote to Detractors
Coming the day after Bush announced his new strategy for Iraq, Blair is again the president's antidote to detractors, both Republican and Democrat, who will try to undermine Bush over his plans. So while the PM attacked the media for encouraging a damaging anti-war climate and dismissed those who claim the invasion of Iraq has fueled the Iraqi insurgency, the White House is expected to focus on the parts of Blair's lecture which offer unconditional support to the US president and the neo-conservative philosophy which still generates much of the energy inside the Bush administration.
Blair's Key Predictions
Blair in Plymouth attempted to forecast the options ahead. And if retreat was chosen - as many Democrats advocate - what would the consequences be? The PM envisaged a catastrophe that would strengthen global terrorism, expand its circle of sympathizers, and ultimately be a futile strategy. "It would postpone but not prevent the confrontation," Blair said.
Blair's Role in US Politics
Although the Republican senator for Nebraska, Chuck Hagel, described the plan to increase US troops in Iraq as "a dangerously wrong-headed strategy," Blair's fears of what a "retreat" would mean may counter the harshest of Bush critics. Blair's need-for-war rhetoric makes him sound like a vice-presidential hopeful on the ticket of Senator John McCain, one of the leading Republican contenders for nomination in 2008.
Challenges for the Next President
The timing of Blair's eventual departure and the electoral standing of the Brown premiership may determine how much of his version of Pax Britannia survives under Brown and beyond. Similar warnings are being thrown at whoever takes over from Bush. One credible forecast is that Bush is intent on delaying any withdrawal in Iraq until the next president takes office.
Hotels and the War
The Impact of War on the Hotel Industry
The war in Iraq has had a significant impact on numerous industries, and the hotel industry is no exception. The ongoing conflict has affected both local and international tourism, leading to a decline in hotel occupancy rates and revenue. The unpredictability and insecurity in the region have made potential tourists more hesitant to visit Iraq and neighboring countries, resulting in a decrease in demand for hotel accommodations.
The Challenges Faced by Hotels in Conflict Zones
Hotels located in conflict zones face numerous challenges in providing safe and secure accommodations for both guests and staff. The constant threat of violence and instability make it difficult for hotels to guarantee the safety of their guests, leading to a decline in bookings and overall business. Additionally, the scarcity of essential resources, such as electricity and water, further compounds the challenges faced by hotels in these areas.
The Role of Hotels in Supporting Reconstruction Efforts
Despite the challenges posed by the war, hotels in conflict zones can play a crucial role in supporting the reconstruction efforts of the affected regions. By providing a safe and secure environment for international NGOs, diplomats, and journalists, hotels can facilitate their work in rebuilding infrastructure, addressing humanitarian needs, and promoting stability. Moreover, hotels can contribute to the local economy by providing employment opportunities and fostering economic growth.
The Future Prospects for Hotels in Post-Conflict Iraq
Once the conflict in Iraq comes to an end and stability is restored, the hotel industry is expected to experience a resurgence. The potential for increased tourism, both for business and leisure purposes, presents an opportunity for hotels to rebuild and attract guests from around the world. However, it will require significant investment in infrastructure, marketing, and security to regain the trust of potential visitors and ensure a steady flow of tourists.
The Importance of a Peaceful Resolution
Ultimately, the resolution of the war in Iraq is crucial for the recovery and growth of the hotel industry in the country. A peaceful and stable Iraq will not only attract tourists but also encourage foreign investment in the hotel sector. By creating a favorable and secure environment, hotels can become key contributors to the economic development and prosperity of the nation.