[sinkspur]

Why should we go into a defensive shell and not assume that the statement is aimed at the current situation in its entirety including the intransigence of France and Russia, the emergence of terror networks loosely aligned with rogue states, and the complacency of the current order regarding rogue states developing and proliferating WMD.

Because you know very well that this assumption would be ludicrous.

The Pope's Christmas Peace Message, delivered through the clownish Archbishop Martino two weeks ago and largely unreported, stated that there are underlying motives behind terrorism "which should be taken into account".

What on earth could bin Laden have to say that is worth listening to?

[GirlShortstop]

reed:  Why should we go into a defensive shell and not assume that the statement is aimed at the current situation in its entirety...

Sink:   Because you know very well that this assumption would be ludicrous.

Says you, sinkspur... I can see reed's point clearly.

The Pope's Christmas Peace Message....stated that there are underlying motives behind terrorism "which should be taken into account".
What on earth could bin Laden have to say that is worth listening to?

Listening to UBL?  I think you need to support that leap and put it into context.  As it stands, "underlying motives" is wide open to speculation, no?  My guess would be the chic muhammaden chant of "death to infidels", or wahhabism.

[reed_inthe_wind]

"Because you know very well that this assumption would be ludicrous."

First - don't tell me what I think.

"The Pope's Christmas Peace Message,...stated that there are underlying motives behind terrorism which should be taken into account".

Our own military commanders in Iraq are conducting operations with a great deal of self imposed restraint. The purpose of the policy is to avoid stirring up additional resistance. So we are already taking into account motives of terrorism.

Our President's attempt to install a democratic and just government in Iraq is a prime example of how we are taking into account the motives of terrorism. Once again, FReepers go into a mental cacoon when the Vatican says anything.