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I disagree entirely with the notion that our values mean very much in the areas we are involved in.

Well you are completely wrong. The values of freedom and self-worth are changing the ME right before our eyes. As for the ME changing into a "fully democratic" mode....that is immaterial (hell we aren't a fully democratic State...we are Limited Republic...and thankfully so).

But if you don't think the values of self-worth and Freedom aren't changing the ME....you are entirely wrong. The fact is these two values have for far too long been denied the people of the ME. Now that they are emerging....they are spreading like wild flowers. The ME is changing every single day...and in 5 years, 10 years it won't be recognizable. The World will be forever thankful in the decades to come.

We have fought and continue to fight the most successful unconventional war in history. Since Sept 11th, 2001 our enemies have suffered one strategic defeat after another....we have not suffered one.

Best regards,

"Well you are completely wrong. The values of freedom and self-worth are changing the ME right before our eyes."

Hey, Dev.. I've been partially wrong before. But, let's look at the "progress" being made. The Palestinians elected Hamas, well-known for its campaign of violence and terror. And then there's Iran, who's leader calls for Israel to be wiped off the face of this earth and continues its pursuit of nuclear weapons.

I'm not willing to concede being completely wrong. Maybe President Bush hit the nail on the head in describing America as too hooked on oil. If we can make oil irrelevant or less relevant, perhaps we can make better progress?

Seems like a twisted path, if you ask me. Meanwhile, we need to deal with reality. And to me, that reality, despite having fought and continuing to fight the most successful unconventional war in history, means treating the enemy for what it is. Not some civilized members of society but armed combatant terrorists who must be done away with, with no quarter.

I fear the Middle East will continue to suffer from a tribal mentality and be afflicted with religious fanatics for some time to come.

Best,

Spotty