WASHINGTON -- The debate in Washington over policy in Iraq remains contentious and even ugly, but one fact is certain: The United States will remain essentially alone. American policy must reflect the fact that no one is going to help Washington resolve the conflict into which it has blundered.
Ironically, the Bush administration and its critics alike have ignored this unpleasant reality. The administration plays up the minuscule contribution of states such as Mongolia, which U.S. President George W. Bush visited on his recent trip to Asia. Democrats claim that they could convince America's more important friends and allies to share the occupation burden.
However, no nation other than Britain provides a significant combat contingent in Iraq. And many members of the coalition, including London, are edging, and in some cases running, for the exits. It would be no different under a President John Kerry or Howard Dean.