Re: Robin Goldsworthy’s commentary (“Looking beyond our Foothills, Sept. 28), those who follow the world scene tell us that Ahmadinejad is more blowhard than actual world leader. The real powers within Iraq remain the mullahs. Ahmadinejad serves a purpose for them, though. He is youngish, provocative and outrageous, which appeals to the young Iranians and counters affection most have for American culture. But does he really make national decisions in his own country? Many doubt it. I agree with Mrs. Goldsworthy that the Columbia president missed an opportunity to show American-style tolerance. I also believe that the protesters (as much as that is my personal history during the ’60s), only served to boost the profile of this buffoon. The current Administration has done quite of job of building Ahmadinejad’s esteem (both self and with elements within his own society) as well. Many believe, myself included, that this type of boogie-man creation is similar to the propaganda build-up to the Iran conflict. The Bush Administration has provided multiple reasons for the Iran War redux, including at every opportunity associating Iran with the brutal attacks of 9/11. The truth, however, is those attacks were mostly perpetrated by Saudi Arabians, not Iranians. Now at every opportunity we are bombarded with “facts” from Administration officials of the danger of Iran. Despite the fact that there is a fellow over in North Korea much more volatile with no mullahs to restrain him.
