'The US Has Gone Mad' (1989) Political Essay by John le Carré

John le Carré’s essay, 'The United States Has Gone Mad', is a scathing critique of the U.S. government’s actions during the early 2000s, particularly under President George W. Bush’s administration. Written in the context of the Iraq War, le Carré examines the motives and consequences of America’s foreign policy, condemning its unilateralism, hubris, and disregard for international law.

Key Points
Criticism of U.S. Leadership: Le Carré denounces the Bush administration for what he sees as its imperialistic and reckless behavior, driven by neoconservative ideology.

He accuses Bush and his inner circle of exploiting the September 11 attacks to justify the invasion of Iraq, claiming the war was based on false premises such as weapons of mass destruction (WMDs).

Manipulation of Fear: The essay highlights how fear was weaponized to rally public support for war, portraying Iraq as an imminent threat despite weak evidence.

Le Carré criticizes the media and political establishment for failing to challenge these narratives and for amplifying the administration’s propaganda.

Erosion of Moral Authority: The author argues that the U.S., once seen as a champion of democracy and freedom, undermined its moral credibility by acting unilaterally and ignoring global consensus.

He points to the sidelining of the United Nations and the disdain for diplomacy as signs of arrogance.

Impact on the World: Le Carré warns of the long-term consequences of American policies, including destabilization in the Middle East and the erosion of trust in Western leadership.

He also expresses concern about the global rise of anti-American sentiment and the potential for increased conflict.

Personal Tone: While the essay is deeply political, it is also intensely personal, reflecting le Carré’s frustration and disillusionment with the direction of U.S. foreign policy.

His tone is passionate, almost prophetic, as he laments what he sees as a loss of sanity and reason in global politics.

Conclusion
Le Carré’s essay is a powerful indictment of American exceptionalism and the war in Iraq, warning of the dangers of unchecked power and the abandonment of international cooperation. It serves as a call for accountability, rationality, and the pursuit of peace, even in the face of fear and adversity.