Bush & Blair are seen as weak by terrorists. And they react predictably.

[bigtree]

They clamp down on civil liberties, strike out at innocent muslims, and muslim nations ,causing more resentment of their respective countries, encouraging potential recruits for more terror against our countries and our interests. Knee jerk reactions from two frightened heads of state.

We have a new, multi-billion dollar agency that is supposed to protect us from these types of incidents, but there is really no way to prevent attacks indefinitely with defensive measures alone. We need diplomacy and guileless leadership that will seek to address the root causes of the animosity that is growing around the world towards our country.

I suspect that all we will get is more of the same 'chip on the shoulder' blustering from our present leadership. Bush has had little, or no life experience that gave him the opportunity to exhibit courage. I'm convinced that he can only act out of fear. That all but guarantees that he/we/they will be challenged again with violence. Moreover, I'm convinced that these two men, who have been responsible for their nation's security during the most dedicated attacks on our countries in decades, will only make matters worse.

My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims of this horrible violence and their families and loved ones. I am in solidarity with the rest of the British public as well.

[Dissent Is Patriotic]

1. I don't think terrorists think of it that way

maybe they are just able to see about our leaders what we should see, power-grabbing megalomaniacs.

[bigtree]

3. bin Laden wanted us to invade a muslim nation and stir up resentment

so that he could increase his following and increase the hatred of the U.S. and our allies and agents. I believe he said so on several occasions. Bush played right into his hands with his invasion and occupation of Iraq. Bush acts like that action struck fear in terrorists, but I believe it encouraged them to act again to provoke Bush into more stupidity.

[The Magistrate]

2. Well Said, Mr. Tree!

You have put it excellently, Sir.

The leading purpose of these attacks is to stimulate over-reaction, and blunderig reaction, by the officials, and foster recruitment and gain prestige. That is the basic strategy of all guerrilla activity in its expanding stage.

[CWebster]

4. Thoughtful post

good points.

[bigtree]

5. Bush and Blair will not keep us safe.

If this was Clinton there would be calls for impeachment. Weak on defense would be the mantra. With all of the arrogamt blundering that Bush and Blair have put us through, I think they deserve a political thrashing for the security lapse, although I maintain that they are foolish to address these events with defensive, or military actions alone.