I read these opinion pieces that will come out more and more in the days and years ahead and wonder whether we, as a country, are happier with the governments of Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran and Pakistan or those of Germany, Italy and Japan. Most have been set up and aided by the US government. It is clear that what is required in these countries is the tearing down of the culture of oppression and anger (which was prevalent in both Germany and Italy prior to World War II) as well as the destruction of feudal governmental structures (the previous government of Japan). The point that I think needs to be made is that we must wage war on terrorism and all its allies. Afghanistan and Iraq currently harbor, encourage and finance terrorists. They must declare now whether or not they will continue this practice further. In coming out against terrorism, they must turn over or aid in the hunting of any and all terrorists in their countries. I tend to agree with the Taliban that bin Laden could not have been behind these attacks (I think they are beyond his capabilities), but that does not change the fact that he is an unremitting terrorist. He wears it as a badge of honor and both him and his organizations must be brought down. Governments that harbor or remain silent on terrorism must also be brought down. The culture must be changed totally. There will be civilian and military casualties. People that don't deserve to die will be killed and the anger against the US in these regions will increase. However, that anger is fueled by a fanatical culture whose only goal is continued violence to remain in power. That culture has made war on the US. We have tried to avoid making war in retaliation in the past. Unfortunately we don't have a choice any more.
- posted by levinson @ 9/14/2001 07:01:00 AM