Oy Oy Oy

There had been a lot of controversy here in Australia over PM John Howard's comments toward Barack Obama's (potential) Iraq strategy.

For those who missed it [seeing as I am not watching American news, I'm not sure how big this has been] Howard made a statement saying that al-Qaida is praying for Obama to become president because his plans to pull the soldiers out would give them what they want. Of course, Obama had come-backs of his own.

More than anything, I think that America is a bit stunned to hear an Australia speak up in opposition. Americans tend to assume that Australia is in our fan club (and, based on Howard's lovey dovey relationship with George Bush, this isn't unreasonable). Right or wrong, American don't generally see Australia as a political heavyweight prone to throw criticism and opinions in America's direction.

While America sits asking "what? wait a minute, who's John Howard?," Australia is generally angered that Howard would say something so stupid and inflammatory. Regardless of personal stance on the war and withdrawal of troops, it's hardly ever a good idea to go making statements like Howards, and most people here agree that Howard was seriously lacking tact and good sense.

Gotta love those American/Australian relations. I think it'll all blow over, and we'll still be good friends.

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