/how do you italicize it?/
A frienf of mine, studying in America these days, suggested the following: "To avoid the never-ending confusion (terrorists, murderers, lunatics etc.), and to speak in politically correct language (so not vermin of mother-f$$$$rs), let's call the hijackers & Comp. what they really are: 'Soldiers'. They are waging a war, as they themselves claim, but it hence follows that they are commiting war crimes. As far I know, it has been known how to deal with nations who commit war crimes since mid-1940s. Regards,
" ...what they really are: 'Soldiers'..." Thank you for this slant of reality. Indeed, they are solders and view themselves as such.
Imagine the amount of information, perspectives, competeing branches, attitudes, and contradictions the meetings of our President and his cabinet, military, and related security agencies, are bringing to the fore for consideration. A Herculean task, indeed.
How much information is enough? Instant decisions that have profound consequences and life altering ones for all of us. Wisdom demands these decisions are made prudently and not in the heat of inflamed impulses.
While we are eager for effective military response, we do want to portend an effective and triumphant outcome.
Being Friends and Allies with other nations is important and desirable; however it usually is based on what is in each of these nations interest at the moment, in regard to how supporting they are. Many of us (americans) think our way of life and our Republic form of government is a beacon for other countries to see, learn something about how it can work and perhaps choose to move in a like direction. Freedom, independence, liberty, justice, and opportunity are fundamentals we cling to perpetuating with resolute purpose.
Welcome.