LH,

The ROE for our forces in Iraq would indicate that, if they are NOT fired upon, they would not fire back. IE, if the "insurgents" stop attacking the US troops, there would be no deaths, and we would leave. Since they do not, I have to presume that the ones fighting want a US presence there in order to give them an excuse to murder innocents.

I do not judge Iraqis, Iranians, or Palestinians as any less worthy of life than any other group- I DO judge that those who commit acts of violence against innocent people should be routed out and destroyed, if only to protect the greater good.

In a "perfect " world, we all could let the misguided blow up whomever they like, and forgive them. I would rather stop them, and prevent the loss of innocent lives.