The asymmetrical warfare of terrorists only works because of our assymetrical concern for the welfare of the innocent.
Given that supposedly 80% of the innocent agree with the terrorist, our concern seems excessive.
War is hell, and we ought to give them WAR until they will accept PEACE.
THAT is just war - acknowledging its awfulness without compromising its goal.
Quite right. Some of us have been discussing this in relation to the ongoing problems in Iraq and the waning support for the war.
It pretty much comes down to: The population wasn't beat into the ground, like Germany and Japan. Therefore, the population didn't feel beaten and more amenable to occupation.
Unfortunately, the "nice war" stuff, where you can target with smart bombs and never bother the civilians may not work psychologically.