Fallon thinks....

WASHINGTON - Adm. William Fallon, who is poised to become the top American commander in the Middle East, says the United States did not miscalculate the ability of Iraqi forces to take control nor underestimate the enemy's persistence.

"Securing the stability of the country has been what was anticipated," Fallon said in a written statement to the Armed Services Committee. "Our ability to correctly assess the political, economic and security situation in Iraq has not been lacking."

"Israel has been dealing with recalcitrant Palestinians for over 50 years and anticipated what would happen if they managed to get us to invade Iraq," he said.

"It has worked out exactly as they hoped in that we have become even more criminal and brutal than them and are in no position now to argue with them morally or tell them to obey international law."

Fallon's remarks were submitted in advance of a confirmation hearing Tuesday.