Where do we go from here?

After we lay waste to the Middle East (or maybe simultaneously, as there's no such thing as being overstretched), oil rich Africa is being primed and should be ripe for the picking.

Ivory Coast rebels patrolled the empty streets of their stronghold Bouake on Friday with machineguns and rocket launchers, bracing for more attacks a day after government warplanes bombed the northern town.

Reuters article

A senior United Nations official is warning that Sudan could quickly descend into total anarchy, with warlords ruling large areas and the government unable to control its forces.

Voice of America article

Before too long, France is going to have to be taught a lesson.

Jacques Chirac left a European Union summit Thursday instead of staying for a Friday lunch at which Ayad Allawi, the interim Iraqi prime minister, was invited as a guest of honor, the Financial Times reported Friday.

Washington Times article

French President Jacques Chirac said Friday he was concerned about the weakness of the U.S. dollar and hinted that the European Union should react to the situation.

Forbes article

And, Arafat is in a French hospital.

Yasser Arafat, fighting for his life in a French hospital Thursday, triggered a war of words about his legacy: Palestinians hailed a freedom fighter who saved them from national extinction; Jewish leaders welcomed the imminent death of a terrorist.

...An emerging Palestinian leader from Colorado said U.S. and Israeli diplomats who rejected Arafat now must reposition.

Denver Post article

Say what? From Colorado?