The telecommunications equipment industry is quietly pinning its hopes on a quick Iraqi war that would be followed by an American-led effort to rebuild the country after the ouster of Saddam Hussein.

Memo to France: play ball, or Alcatel won't be winning any contracts in post-war Iraq.

Memo to telecom news desk: Accounting scandals and economic downturn are tired. If you want your story above the fold, give it an international relations spin.