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Last week the news focus in America shifted from the serious mistakes of a few Americans at the Abu Ghraib prison to the animalistic beheading of an American civilian by Al Qaeda-linked terrorists in Iraq. The pundits were still speculating on the damage done at Abu Ghraib when the hooded terrorists demonstrated for the whole world to see why this fight is essential, how demented these heinous murderers are, and why this fight must continue until the terrorists are defeated.
The contrast should be clear. The United States does not and will not tolerate violations of the Geneva Convention, abuse or harassment of prisoners and any violators will be brought to justice in full view and with complete transparency. The rule of law is the guide and the United States will be held to the highest standards.
On the other hand, how many Arab League countries condemned the beheading of an innocent American citizen broadcast via the internet around the world? For that matter, where is the righteous indignation from our trading partners like China and India or the United Nations? Zero tolerance is important when it comes to the military code of conduct and it is ever more important when it comes to acts of terrorism anywhere in the world.
The United States even prosecutes the War on Terror with restraint and decency. We could have given 24-hour notice and leveled Fallujah a few weeks ago possibly saving American lives. But we were careful to limit 'collateral damage' and demonstrate to the Arab world and the rest that we are indeed liberators and not conquerors. We only desire to live in peace and defend freedom when necessary.
The War on Terror is very difficult and complicated. It will last for many years, but in the last few days we have been reminded in the most graphic and most grotesque way why it must be fought and why it must be won. We must continue to confront the terrorist on our terms in their land, so we don't have to deal with them on their terms in our homeland. |
