Analysts Discuss Possible Iraq-Vietnam Parallels

RAY SUAREZ:

And now, a historical comparison between the Vietnam War that ended 30 years ago and the current war in Iraq. Jeffrey Brown has that story.

JEFFREY BROWN:

Still, again, perhaps more than ever, America's experience in Vietnam continues to loom over the nation's foreign policy, especially the current situation in Iraq. In October, New York Times columnist Tom Friedman drew a parallel between the increased attacks on American forces in Iraq and the Tet Offensive by the Vietcong and North Vietnamese army in 1968.

Last week, when President Bush made a trip to Vietnam for a meeting with Asian leaders, he was asked what lessons the Vietnam War holds for the debate over Iraq.

GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States: I guess my first reaction is, you know, history has a long march to it, and that societies change, and relationships can constantly be altered to the good.

I think one thing — yes, I mean, one lesson is, is that we tend to want there to be instant success in the world. And the task in Iraq is going to take a while.

JEFFREY BROWN:

Asked a similar question, Secretary of State Rice told reporters that, quote, "Historical parallels of that kind are, I think, not very helpful, and I don't think they happen to be right. This was a different set of circumstances with different stakes for the United States and a different kind of war," end quote.