Quote:
Originally Posted by BBKing
They've been quoted as saying a lot of old rubbish, as you know this is an area where hyperbole and propaganda are the norm.
<SNIP> The real issue is the local militia groups who see us as getting in the way of control over the massive amounts of oil smuggling out of Basra and want us out of the way. The risk to UK troops is increasing all the time whether or not Harry goes out there. It's worth keeping an eye on shenanigans in the Basra government and the main Shia factions, just to keep your knowledge of who they all are up to date].
|
I agree that the risk is increasing, and that the militia groups are an issue, however the militia groups also know that they only have limited resources to stop other groups coming in - and the chance of snagging a royal with such a high profile would be irresistible to most of the other groups, thereby giving them a further headache in terms of keeping control of their areas.
I also believe that the <alleged> links to Iran are an issue, however this is not the first time a high profile soldier was kept from the front line, merely the first time it has been done with so much press coverage.
Had the press not been printing every word and movement made on this issue, I honestly believe that he would have gone. I also honestly believe (and I have met a couple of the officers on his course) that he not only felt that he would go, he felt that it was his duty to go and was keen to do the job for which he had been trained.