A general perception exists that the issue of war against Iraq has opened a massive rift between the United States and Europe. Giant anti-war demonstrations, public opinion polls and the behavior of key powers seem to confirm this view, but the reality is actually much more complicated — and very different. The majority of European governments support the United States on the Iraq issue. Though public opinion certainly opposes war, the European populace also is extremely concerned about Europe’s economy, issues of national sovereignty and the effect of French and German power over both. Governments generally have chosen to side with the United States — not because they are suicidal, but because they understand that on election day, the Iraq war will be a side issue and the power of the Franco-German bloc will be a central issue. The United States is much less isolated in relation to Europe than is generally believed....
