Chapter 22 Summary and Analysis

On November 15, Saudi ambassador Prince Bandar bin Sultan, 53, exercises the special entrye to the Oval Office he enjoys since the senior Bush's days. Knowing his nation holds the key to minimizing the impact of war on oil prices, Bandar delivers a private letter from Crown Prince Abdullah and reminds Bush they have tried since 1994 to get the U.S. serious about ousting Saddam. Saudi interests demand a presidential clarification. Bush talks blandly about regime change after the inspectors finish their task and pledges to inform Abdullah before making a final decision. Bush also intends to follow up on Israeli/Palestinian peace, despite Arafat and Sharon, and believes changing Iraq will also change Iran. Bandar wants everything kept secret but needs the same details on U.S. war planning as he received in 1991.

On November 26, Franks sends Rumsfeld the MODEPS, "the Mother...