Big Hopes for Russia and the U.S.
Russia and the United States recently entered negotiations regarding the joint construction of European radar stations. These stations are supposed to be part of the early detection program designed to protect the U.S an Russia from nuclear missile strikes by countries such as Iran. The idea of a joint Russian - U.S project was actually a Russian one. When it was voiced many people felt that this was a clear demonstration of the total end of any residue of the 'Cold War'.
Hopes Dashed
For those of us who were happy at the Russian suggestion of a joint project, it seems we counted our chickens before they hatched. The U.S and Russia have been unable to reach any agreement regarding the radar construction. Not only that, the U.S has proceeded in the construction without the aid of the Russians effectively 'leaving them out'. The Russians are thus now claiming that the European radar bases are actually diminishing the their nuclear power by damaging their deterrent power. While things may yet change it seems that the great peace between two of the world's most powerful nations has not yet been achieved. Something Even More Sinister The claims raised by Russian officials are even more disturbing than a simple lack of negotiations. Some of the issues raised actually convey far more sinister tones than might be felt on the surface. What I am referring to is something I hope to discuss at the next opportunity I have. If anyone has similar feelings, I would be happy if he would share them with me.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Debating Bin Laden
Bin Laden Tapes
As part of the so called "commemoration" of the 11Th of September terrorist strikes, two tapes featuring the infamous Bin Laden were issued. According to many these tapes serve to show that Bin Laden is feeling freer to move about and is less afraid of retribution. In the tapes, Bin Laden continues his tirade against the "West" and calls for all Muslim believers to join his ranks. He also shows an older clip of the "last will and testament" of one of the suicide bombers right before his mission of death. I will therefore take the opportunity in the following paragraph to write some of my own tirade against this man who has managed to inspire such hatred.
The Bin Laden Debate
The tapes have sparked an old debate: Should Bin Laden be hunted down and eradicated or not? Should Bin Laden be viewed as a personal threat or should he be viewed only as part of an organisation that should be fought? The significance of these questions is the decision regarding how much effort should be put into striking at Bin Laden himself. Basically people are wondering if Bin Laden is a head or just a figurehead. To me the answer is obvious and simple. Bin Laden is indeed only a figurehead. Taking out Bin Laden will not bring about a miraculous disappearance of Islamic terror. On the other hand, terrorist leader need to know that they should live in fear knowing that retribution for their crimes is sure to come. Bin Laden is a figurehead but he should also serve as an example. Perhaps with enough examples something will eventually change and we will be closer to peace.
As part of the so called "commemoration" of the 11Th of September terrorist strikes, two tapes featuring the infamous Bin Laden were issued. According to many these tapes serve to show that Bin Laden is feeling freer to move about and is less afraid of retribution. In the tapes, Bin Laden continues his tirade against the "West" and calls for all Muslim believers to join his ranks. He also shows an older clip of the "last will and testament" of one of the suicide bombers right before his mission of death. I will therefore take the opportunity in the following paragraph to write some of my own tirade against this man who has managed to inspire such hatred.
The Bin Laden Debate
The tapes have sparked an old debate: Should Bin Laden be hunted down and eradicated or not? Should Bin Laden be viewed as a personal threat or should he be viewed only as part of an organisation that should be fought? The significance of these questions is the decision regarding how much effort should be put into striking at Bin Laden himself. Basically people are wondering if Bin Laden is a head or just a figurehead. To me the answer is obvious and simple. Bin Laden is indeed only a figurehead. Taking out Bin Laden will not bring about a miraculous disappearance of Islamic terror. On the other hand, terrorist leader need to know that they should live in fear knowing that retribution for their crimes is sure to come. Bin Laden is a figurehead but he should also serve as an example. Perhaps with enough examples something will eventually change and we will be closer to peace.
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