Meaning: This quote by David Letterman is a humorous take on the skepticism surrounding the evidence of Iraq being a threat prior to the United States' invasion in 2003. The quote specifically references France's demand for more evidence before considering Iraq as a threat. By alluding to historical events, Letterman uses satire to highlight the irony in France's request for more evidence.

The quote is delivered in a comedic manner, typical of David Letterman's style. It employs irony and historical reference to convey a message about the nature of evidence and the consequences of demanding more of it. In this case, the allusion to France's request for more evidence before taking action serves to underscore the potential dangers of skepticism in the face of a perceived threat.

The quote is particularly relevant in the context of the political climate surrounding the decision to invade Iraq. At the time, there was significant debate and controversy regarding the justification for military action. The United States, under the leadership of President George W. Bush, asserted that Iraq possessed weapons of mass destruction and posed a threat to global security. However, this assertion was met with skepticism and demands for more concrete evidence from various countries, including France.

The historical reference to France's demand for evidence before taking action is a nod to the country's capitulation to Nazi Germany during World War II. The imagery of France asking for more evidence and then being overrun by the German forces is used by Letterman to satirize the potential consequences of skepticism in the face of a perceived threat. By drawing a parallel between the demand for evidence and historical events, the quote cleverly critiques the notion of requiring absolute proof before acknowledging a threat.

In addition to its political and historical relevance, the quote also showcases Letterman's skill in using humor to address serious and contentious topics. Through his comedic lens, he brings attention to the complexities of international relations, the role of evidence in decision-making, and the potential repercussions of skepticism in the face of potential threats.

Overall, David Letterman's quote encapsulates a blend of humor, historical reference, and political commentary. It serves as a satirical commentary on the demand for evidence prior to considering Iraq a threat, using France's historical actions as a point of reference. The quote's witty delivery and thought-provoking message make it a memorable and impactful commentary on the nature of evidence and skepticism in political decision-making.