All the opponents need notice is, the almost systematic dismantling (I wouldn't want to ascribe 'system' actually) of many tacit or formal agreements made worldwide PD (pre-Dubya).

And as the 'reasons' for each action or inaction are seen to vary from the sophomoric to the incomprehensible - this has to give the PLC its best shot in a decade -- if in fact they feared large support for Israel, from the US (?)

(And we're really pissing off the Russians; they trust us less than at any time since the honeymoon.. as their own C&C for nukes deteriorates along with the economy. Use 'em or lose 'em?) Whom will they choose to support - and for which political retaliation du jour? 'Principle' is likely way down the list.

Oil is still our game, the Saudis love US no more than most of the non-Christian world does - but we have this marriage made in Capitalist Heaven: we want the oil for our 7300# Ford Explorer Urban Assault Vehicles, which amuse the sheep and keep them grazing; they like air conditioned HumVees and golf courses with fountains - in the desert.

Israel faces the least 'satisfactory' kind of war - guerrilla war: mere military excellence is not effective unless a propaganda hit is seen as bearable. And with despicable sorts as encourage own children to volunteer To Do God's Work\ufffd (like Patriotism, the last refuge of a scoundrel) anyone who imagines a cure for this, especially via some nice next slogan - is blowing wishful smoke. One thing is pretty certain:

'Logic' shall play little part. Reason is needed, but there is no slightest basis for imagining that any aim is operating now, higher than vengeance.

It remains a M.A.D. world (Mutually Assured Destruction) - in case the past 9 years have lulled people into imagining that policy abandoned. Two Minutes \ufffd for launch.

Religious fervor is the root of all Evil, to use a word from the litany. Zealotry is invulnerable to sweet Reason.



Sincere condolences, given your locale.


Ashton