To the Point
The Battle for Basra and the Race for the White House
President Bush has high praise for Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's crackdown on Shiite militias, but there's a lot at stake for both leaders. Maliki's political future and US troop withdrawals are both at risk. What could it all mean for McCain, Obama and Clinton? Also, US officials are accused of "meddling" in Pakistan, and the African president who won't leave.
By Warren Olney • • 1h 0m ListenPresident Bush has high praise for Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's crackdown on Shiite militias, but there's a lot at stake for both leaders. Maliki's political future and US troop withdrawals are both at risk. What could it all mean for McCain, Obama and Clinton? Also, Pakistan's media accuses US officials of "meddling," and the tragedy of Zimbabwe will be dramatized by the likely rigging of this Saturday's presidential election.
Photo: Ahmad Al-Rubaye/AFP/Getty Images
In this episode
3 storiesPakistanis Angry over Timing of US Visit
The US has increased attacks by Predator drones against al Qaeda targets in western Pakistan. Meantime, two high-level American diplomats are in the country. Their visit has led to flag burnings in three cities and newspaper editorials accusing the US officials of "indecent haste" and "meddling."
Read the story6 minThe Battle for Basra and the Race for the White House
Militias in Basra are not responding to Nouri al-Maliki's three-day ultimatum, and bitter fighting threatens civilian supplies of food and water. In Baghdad, protesters against the crackdown have crowded the streets, and rocket fire has American civilians taking to bunkers inside the Green Zone.
Read the story35 minRobert Mugabe and the Ruin of Zimbabwe
In 1980, Robert Mugabe became the first black leader of Zimbabwe after a seven-year civil war against the rule of white settlers. Based on a solid economy, he made his country the envy of Africa for healthcare, education and per-capita income. That's according to a white reporter, born and raised in Zimbabwe.
Read the story9 min
