Is it really a surprise to anyone? A new National Intelligence Estimate by US intelligence officials bluntly concludes that the Iraq war is greatly increasing the potential for terrorist acts worldwide rather than decreasing them.

Why? Because Iraq is serving as a focal point for radical Islamists. It is evidence to them of the West’s attempt to conquer Islam and kill Muslims. It serves as a breeding ground for their hatred, and a testing ground to prove their mettle. Radical web sites use Iraq to paint a narrative that highlights insurgent victories and constantly drums in a strongly Anti-American message, increasing morale and spurring radicals to plan a variety of new attacks of widening scope worldwide. Radicals are being inspired to create new cells who communicate only among themselves with no connection to any central group, making them much harder to detect.

Way to go, Dubya! Can you stop lying now by telling people they’re safer when they’re not?

Tags: iraq, national-intelligence-estimate, NIE, radical-islam, terrorism