HINDSIGHT IS 20/20... OR IS IT 60 MINUTES?
May 17, 2004
Rumsfeld Apologizes for Apologizing
Washington, DC | Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld today expressed his "deep regret" for apologizing over the abuse of Iraqi prisoners, and for failing to convey the temporary ill-effects of the offenses to President Bush.
Rumsfeld said he was caught off guard by the sudden swing in public opinion following extensive coverage of the Nick Berg execution. Returning from his surprise visit to Abu Ghraib last week, the Secretary noted that pleas to treat Iraqis humanely had quickly been replaced by calls to "drop the bomb and kill all the motherfuckers."
The Secretary hinted that he had received advance intelligence reports Islamic terrorists might release a video of an American being beheaded, but did not read them.
"Had we realized the mood would shift so suddenly, I never would have apologized. We certainly could have held off for a few more days and avoided all the embarrassment," he said.
"Admitting mistakes is inconsistent with the fundamental values of this administration," the Secretary added. "We didn't stay the course. We will not make that mistake again."
Rumsfeld assured reporters his "pre-Abu Ghraib" condescending and sarcastic attitude has not suffered.
President Bush also took a moment during a fundraising dinner this week to voice similar regret, saying, "I've learnt my lesson. This is what I get for listening to advise."
The President vowed to reinstate his policy of sticking his fingers in his ears and yelling "nanner nanner nanner" when anyone tries to offer an opposing point of view.
