Struggling to make sense of those things that may never make sense.

I have spent some time listening to/watching CNN this morning. I am concerned by this administration's approach to Iraq and Iran. The two central concerns are: Iran is an ancient civilization, I believe that this is the Persian Empire that occupied ancient Israel in the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament). The United States is less than 300 years old, at least the European invasion/occupation part of it...clearly the indigenous peoples have been here for probably thousands of years. 1. I am concerned by what I perceive as condescension on the part of this administration towards this empire with a long and proud history. 2. I am concerned by how I perceive that this administration thinks about Iraq, it's policies towards and concerning Iraq. If Iraq is a sovereign nation isn't it really and truly up to them if they choose to have foreigners like the United States on their soil or not? Why does this administration act as if Iraq has no choice? Is what we as a country are doing in the Middle East only for our benefit, or is it also a positive thing for the people and civilizations that we are rubbing shoulders with? I think that I am somewhat confused by this administration's willingness to totally interfere with what is going on in the Middle East and yet 45 threatens to take away desperately needed funds from Central America. I believe that according to Michael Moore's 9/11 the answer would be it's the oil, when it comes to the Middle East. I am still working all of this out in my heart and head.