Iraq & Al Qaeda: Surprise of Surprises

Should we be surprised that a classified government counter-terrorism analysis obliquely acknowledges that the war in Iraq has done nothing to diminish Al Qaeda, which is at its strongest since the 9/11 attacks on New York and Washington?

Nah.

Should we be surprised that the terrorist group has used a safe haven on the Afghan-Pakistan border to restore its operating capabilities with little concern about the comparatively small NATO-led force in the region, which is many times smaller and not nearly well equipped than the large U.S. force chasing Al Qaeda shadows in Iraq?

Nah.

Should we be surprised that Washington has not wanted to ruffle the feathers of Pervez Musharraf, lavishing billions of dollars and jet aircraft on this tinhorn dictator but not pursuing Al Qaeda into his lair?

Nah.

Should we be surprised that the White House response to the analysis is that "[O]ver the past six years, we have prevented attacks from Al Qaeda by taking the fight to them," which of course is disingenuous since the fight has not been taken to them and there is little evidence of consequence that attacks on the homeland have been prevented?

Nah.