Clancy expresses a rare doubt

Tom Clancy, the hawkish master of such million-selling thrillers as “Patriot Games” and “The Hunt for Red October,” now finds himself adding to the criticism of the Iraq war, and not only through his own comments.

His latest book, “Battle Ready,” is a collaboration with another war critic, retired Marine Gen. Anthony C. Zinni. Published this week, “Battle Ready” looks at Zinni’s long military career, dating back to the Vietnam War, and includes harsh remarks by Zinni about the current conflict.

In an interview with the Associated Press to promote the book, Clancy reluctantly acknowledged his own concerns. He declined repeatedly to comment on the war before saying that it lacked a casus belli, or suitable provocation.

“It troubles me greatly to say that, because I’ve met President Bush,” Clancy said. “He’s a good guy.... I think he’s well-grounded, both morally and philosophically. But good men make mistakes.”