SOC
“You can criticize my government all you want. Don’t be surprised if I fire back though. The problem I clearly had was that you were using relatively stupid arguments in my opinion, such as Bush is a bad President because he left Washington before the hurricane.”
OK, I can see your point. But more of that later. As you rightly say this has developed into something far more interesting. I think Hand made an interesting point in this regard. I have been brought up to form my own opinions, make my own mind up about world events. America always seem to stand pretty square behind its Government, to follow the leader as it were. That’s not how I feel, or many others. If I believe my Government is wrong I will say so. I owe that much to those who’ve gone before. Perhaps it is a cultural thing.
“If the only way you can come up with a response is to take a reply I made to someone else completely out of context, do me a favor and just give up now.”
Sorry, can’t do that, I’m stubborn too. At least it provoked a response.
“Now when the hell did we say that this would be an immediate transfer of power? Iraq isn’t going to become the 51st state.”
Iraq already has become the 51st State, at least for the foreseeable future.
” If certain militant individuals would cease and desist they’d find we’d be out of their country a lot sooner. Does anyone choose to focus on that? No, they just want to complain that we’re still in Iraq.”
Fair enough. But with the most sophisticated military and intelligence agencies in the world at work in Iraq doesn’t the American public, and even more its armed forces, have the right to expect that resistance might be quelled quicker than it has?
“Do you really want us to pull out with the country the state it is in now? What’s wrong with wanting to establish a new government? Or have them draft a new constitution?”
If those are your aims it seems the Iraqi people are not satisfied with the rate of progress or their degree of involvement. If the people feel they are more involved and that Government is devolved to them the terrorists and Ba’athists have less support. The more disenfranchised the population are the more likely they are to support terrorism and resistance.
“The whole situation will be rectified. If it takes more time, at least nobody will be able to say we didn’t follow through with it. I still maintain that it would go a lot quicker if we didn’t have to duck and cover every time we walked outside.”
It might be rectified or you could be there for a very long time sustaining significant losses like the Russians in Afghanistan or even like Vietnam. America entered Vietnam with the best of intentions and bought home 50,00 filled body bags. I fear the same could happen in Iraq.
“Apparently some of us did, or we wouldn’t be there now. Again, if we leave them to it isn’t there going to be world outcry about the situation we left Iraq in? It seems this may be one of those “damned if you do, damned if you don’t” scenarios. Pardon us for not taking the easy way out.”
But that’s partly the problem now, there is no longer an easy way out.
“The rest of the world still wishes to get involved. I have no idea why, given that they probably have a good idea that it kinda sucks to be in there right now. Oh that’s right, financial gain. But only we are ever accused of doing that. First we are criticized for not minding the wishes of others. Now we are criticized when we do. Can we ever do right in the eyes of the International Community? I find it amusing that since the meat of the fighting is over with, now the French want into Iraq. And others as well.”
Can’t comment about the French as I am not French. As for financial gain can you tell me how much American business stands to gain from the American presence in Iraq compared to other countries like Britain, France, Germany, or even Iraq? And the price for that financial gain is the deaths of American and British soldiers.
“Does France have any idea of the current situation? Is there a problem not wanting to agree to a set timetable when we don’t think it’s feasible in the current situation? If the French can come up with a sensible plan this time I’m sure we’d listen to it. Personally, since the UN had 12 years to solve the problem of Iraq, I think we should get the same.”
You may not think the Frech offer was feasible at this time, but is there any more dialogue? Is America prepared to listen to anyone. You say the UN had 12 years to solve the problem of Iraq, some would say America has had the same.
“Or could it be that there are many more US soldiers? Personally I’d rather none of them died, but that’s the way these people want it for some reason. There are Brits, Poles, Aussies, and a few others in there. But the majority presence is still American. Big surprise then that we get most of the casualties. We provide most of the targets.”
Not wholly convinced that’s the reason. Royal Marines in Basra were patrolling on foot and in Berets without helmets and body armour. Not in Bradley’s and Abrams’. The experience gained in patrolling in N. Ireland I would imagine has been invaluable. And yes I am aware that the British have sustained casualties, but hardly to the same extent. We hear of multiple attacks on American service personnel but rarely on British. As you say the British are there in much smaller numbers with possibly a more relaxed posture. If that is the case wouldn’t the seasoned terrorist find them a much simpler target?
“Think about it, it does seem to make a little sense. Foreign terrorists, or Iraqis loyal to Saddam who get sponsored by other unsavory organizations or nations, swarm to Iraq due to the security situation to lay into Americans since they also hate us. On one hand you can see our reluctance to leave. It keeps the nastiness way away from our borders, and we get to kill more terrorists as a result.”
That’s probably the most honest statement I’ve ever heard an American make about Iraq.
“As for France, they weren’t occupied, they were effectively conquered. Hitler wasn’t going to be giving up his farmland. We didn’t conquer Iraq, we took out the old regime and are trying to get the Iraqis moving in the direction of creating a new, stable one.”
But America is giving exactly the same impression. Six months on and you have massive military force in place yet the situation seems not to be improving at all.
“Well, they hid parts of their air force pretty damn well, and a MiG-25 isn’t a small aircraft. Ok, an Su-25 is, but still.”
Yes, and their burial has effectively destroyed them hasn’t it?
“If they buried the damn things we may never find them. There have been rumors that they were “exported” via Syria to the Bekaa Valley in Lebanon for burial and storage.”
If proved true then that would be a worrying development.
“If this is true, then the only reason we haven’t gone in and dug them up is we’d need to determine how to handle Syria first. We will probably be in Iraq as long as there is a terrorist threat, but we won’t need nearly the size we have in place now. Once the Iraqis train and get their own government and military arm going again they will be able to take care of themselves.”
But how much autonomy and democracy will you be willing to give the Iraqi’s? Do they need to subscribe to the “American way”? How much cultural influence will America impose on Iraq, albeit accidentally?
“Then we can pull out mostly and go back to hunting terrorists for execution. Is Iraq better than it was before? Well, Saddam hasn’t gassed or executed anyone for a while, and they now actually get an unbiased view of events through the media, as opposed to Mr. There Are No Americans In Baghdad.”
Yes, Saddam is gone but it seems the Iraqi’s want things to happen faster. Is it that difficult for a country with America’s wherewithal to reinstate essential services like water, electricity, health care and education?
“So there’s nothing wrong with protecting out own interests now? And the US war on terror is having an effect. When was the last incident of terrorism inside our border? As for Bin Laden, we’ll get him if we have to take apart Pakistan and Iran to do it. Of course, there’s no conclusive, 100% concrete evidence the man is still alive either…”
True he may be dead, bit it doesn’t really matter anymore does it? Alive he is an iconic figure with no shortage of followers. Dead, he is a martyr, same result. The last incidence of terrorism inside your own border was the anthrax situation, got anyone for that yet? Or was it the Washington sniper?
“I honestly have no clue. I’d like to think that he would be apprehended and sent to The Hague. Maybe if we’re “negotiating” we can get closer to him that way?”
Interesting change of attitude. Being hit by LGB’s and cruise missiles wouldn’t have sent him to the Hague. I hope he is caught, perhaps that will persuade the Iraqis things can improve.
“I have to say that what I still consider to be an asinine opening argument has sparked an interesting debate. This is probably the most effort I’ve put into a post on this board for a while.”
Yes, it’s hard work. Not sure whether I can say I enjoy it. At least some good has come of my asininity. I seem to remember you’ve made the odd turkey yourself.
Regards,
kev35
SOC
“You can criticize my government all you want. Don’t be surprised if I fire back though. The problem I clearly had was that you were using relatively stupid arguments in my opinion, such as Bush is a bad President because he left Washington before the hurricane.”
OK, I can see your point. But more of that later. As you rightly say this has developed into something far more interesting. I think Hand made an interesting point in this regard. I have been brought up to form my own opinions, make my own mind up about world events. America always seem to stand pretty square behind its Government, to follow the leader as it were. That’s not how I feel, or many others. If I believe my Government is wrong I will say so. I owe that much to those who’ve gone before. Perhaps it is a cultural thing.
“If the only way you can come up with a response is to take a reply I made to someone else completely out of context, do me a favor and just give up now.”
Sorry, can’t do that, I’m stubborn too. At least it provoked a response.
“Now when the hell did we say that this would be an immediate transfer of power? Iraq isn’t going to become the 51st state.”
Iraq already has become the 51st State, at least for the foreseeable future.
” If certain militant individuals would cease and desist they’d find we’d be out of their country a lot sooner. Does anyone choose to focus on that? No, they just want to complain that we’re still in Iraq.”
Fair enough. But with the most sophisticated military and intelligence agencies in the world at work in Iraq doesn’t the American public, and even more its armed forces, have the right to expect that resistance might be quelled quicker than it has?
“Do you really want us to pull out with the country the state it is in now? What’s wrong with wanting to establish a new government? Or have them draft a new constitution?”
If those are your aims it seems the Iraqi people are not satisfied with the rate of progress or their degree of involvement. If the people feel they are more involved and that Government is devolved to them the terrorists and Ba’athists have less support. The more disenfranchised the population are the more likely they are to support terrorism and resistance.
“The whole situation will be rectified. If it takes more time, at least nobody will be able to say we didn’t follow through with it. I still maintain that it would go a lot quicker if we didn’t have to duck and cover every time we walked outside.”
It might be rectified or you could be there for a very long time sustaining significant losses like the Russians in Afghanistan or even like Vietnam. America entered Vietnam with the best of intentions and bought home 50,00 filled body bags. I fear the same could happen in Iraq.
“Apparently some of us did, or we wouldn’t be there now. Again, if we leave them to it isn’t there going to be world outcry about the situation we left Iraq in? It seems this may be one of those “damned if you do, damned if you don’t” scenarios. Pardon us for not taking the easy way out.”
But that’s partly the problem now, there is no longer an easy way out.
“The rest of the world still wishes to get involved. I have no idea why, given that they probably have a good idea that it kinda sucks to be in there right now. Oh that’s right, financial gain. But only we are ever accused of doing that. First we are criticized for not minding the wishes of others. Now we are criticized when we do. Can we ever do right in the eyes of the International Community? I find it amusing that since the meat of the fighting is over with, now the French want into Iraq. And others as well.”
Can’t comment about the French as I am not French. As for financial gain can you tell me how much American business stands to gain from the American presence in Iraq compared to other countries like Britain, France, Germany, or even Iraq? And the price for that financial gain is the deaths of American and British soldiers.
“Does France have any idea of the current situation? Is there a problem not wanting to agree to a set timetable when we don’t think it’s feasible in the current situation? If the French can come up with a sensible plan this time I’m sure we’d listen to it. Personally, since the UN had 12 years to solve the problem of Iraq, I think we should get the same.”
You may not think the Frech offer was feasible at this time, but is there any more dialogue? Is America prepared to listen to anyone. You say the UN had 12 years to solve the problem of Iraq, some would say America has had the same.
“Or could it be that there are many more US soldiers? Personally I’d rather none of them died, but that’s the way these people want it for some reason. There are Brits, Poles, Aussies, and a few others in there. But the majority presence is still American. Big surprise then that we get most of the casualties. We provide most of the targets.”
Not wholly convinced that’s the reason. Royal Marines in Basra were patrolling on foot and in Berets without helmets and body armour. Not in Bradley’s and Abrams’. The experience gained in patrolling in N. Ireland I would imagine has been invaluable. And yes I am aware that the British have sustained casualties, but hardly to the same extent. We hear of multiple attacks on American service personnel but rarely on British. As you say the British are there in much smaller numbers with possibly a more relaxed posture. If that is the case wouldn’t the seasoned terrorist find them a much simpler target?
“Think about it, it does seem to make a little sense. Foreign terrorists, or Iraqis loyal to Saddam who get sponsored by other unsavory organizations or nations, swarm to Iraq due to the security situation to lay into Americans since they also hate us. On one hand you can see our reluctance to leave. It keeps the nastiness way away from our borders, and we get to kill more terrorists as a result.”
That’s probably the most honest statement I’ve ever heard an American make about Iraq.
“As for France, they weren’t occupied, they were effectively conquered. Hitler wasn’t going to be giving up his farmland. We didn’t conquer Iraq, we took out the old regime and are trying to get the Iraqis moving in the direction of creating a new, stable one.”
But America is giving exactly the same impression. Six months on and you have massive military force in place yet the situation seems not to be improving at all.
“Well, they hid parts of their air force pretty damn well, and a MiG-25 isn’t a small aircraft. Ok, an Su-25 is, but still.”
Yes, and their burial has effectively destroyed them hasn’t it?
“If they buried the damn things we may never find them. There have been rumors that they were “exported” via Syria to the Bekaa Valley in Lebanon for burial and storage.”
If proved true then that would be a worrying development.
“If this is true, then the only reason we haven’t gone in and dug them up is we’d need to determine how to handle Syria first. We will probably be in Iraq as long as there is a terrorist threat, but we won’t need nearly the size we have in place now. Once the Iraqis train and get their own government and military arm going again they will be able to take care of themselves.”
But how much autonomy and democracy will you be willing to give the Iraqi’s? Do they need to subscribe to the “American way”? How much cultural influence will America impose on Iraq, albeit accidentally?
“Then we can pull out mostly and go back to hunting terrorists for execution. Is Iraq better than it was before? Well, Saddam hasn’t gassed or executed anyone for a while, and they now actually get an unbiased view of events through the media, as opposed to Mr. There Are No Americans In Baghdad.”
Yes, Saddam is gone but it seems the Iraqi’s want things to happen faster. Is it that difficult for a country with America’s wherewithal to reinstate essential services like water, electricity, health care and education?
“So there’s nothing wrong with protecting out own interests now? And the US war on terror is having an effect. When was the last incident of terrorism inside our border? As for Bin Laden, we’ll get him if we have to take apart Pakistan and Iran to do it. Of course, there’s no conclusive, 100% concrete evidence the man is still alive either…”
True he may be dead, bit it doesn’t really matter anymore does it? Alive he is an iconic figure with no shortage of followers. Dead, he is a martyr, same result. The last incidence of terrorism inside your own border was the anthrax situation, got anyone for that yet? Or was it the Washington sniper?
“I honestly have no clue. I’d like to think that he would be apprehended and sent to The Hague. Maybe if we’re “negotiating” we can get closer to him that way?”
Interesting change of attitude. Being hit by LGB’s and cruise missiles wouldn’t have sent him to the Hague. I hope he is caught, perhaps that will persuade the Iraqis things can improve.
“I have to say that what I still consider to be an asinine opening argument has sparked an interesting debate. This is probably the most effort I’ve put into a post on this board for a while.”
Yes, it’s hard work. Not sure whether I can say I enjoy it. At least some good has come of my asininity. I seem to remember you’ve made the odd turkey yourself.
Regards,
kev35
SOC
“You can criticize my government all you want. Don’t be surprised if I fire back though. The problem I clearly had was that you were using relatively stupid arguments in my opinion, such as Bush is a bad President because he left Washington before the hurricane.”
OK, I can see your point. But more of that later. As you rightly say this has developed into something far more interesting. I think Hand made an interesting point in this regard. I have been brought up to form my own opinions, make my own mind up about world events. America always seem to stand pretty square behind its Government, to follow the leader as it were. That’s not how I feel, or many others. If I believe my Government is wrong I will say so. I owe that much to those who’ve gone before. Perhaps it is a cultural thing.
“If the only way you can come up with a response is to take a reply I made to someone else completely out of context, do me a favor and just give up now.”
Sorry, can’t do that, I’m stubborn too. At least it provoked a response.
“Now when the hell did we say that this would be an immediate transfer of power? Iraq isn’t going to become the 51st state.”
Iraq already has become the 51st State, at least for the foreseeable future.
” If certain militant individuals would cease and desist they’d find we’d be out of their country a lot sooner. Does anyone choose to focus on that? No, they just want to complain that we’re still in Iraq.”
Fair enough. But with the most sophisticated military and intelligence agencies in the world at work in Iraq doesn’t the American public, and even more its armed forces, have the right to expect that resistance might be quelled quicker than it has?
“Do you really want us to pull out with the country the state it is in now? What’s wrong with wanting to establish a new government? Or have them draft a new constitution?”
If those are your aims it seems the Iraqi people are not satisfied with the rate of progress or their degree of involvement. If the people feel they are more involved and that Government is devolved to them the terrorists and Ba’athists have less support. The more disenfranchised the population are the more likely they are to support terrorism and resistance.
“The whole situation will be rectified. If it takes more time, at least nobody will be able to say we didn’t follow through with it. I still maintain that it would go a lot quicker if we didn’t have to duck and cover every time we walked outside.”
It might be rectified or you could be there for a very long time sustaining significant losses like the Russians in Afghanistan or even like Vietnam. America entered Vietnam with the best of intentions and bought home 50,00 filled body bags. I fear the same could happen in Iraq.
“Apparently some of us did, or we wouldn’t be there now. Again, if we leave them to it isn’t there going to be world outcry about the situation we left Iraq in? It seems this may be one of those “damned if you do, damned if you don’t” scenarios. Pardon us for not taking the easy way out.”
But that’s partly the problem now, there is no longer an easy way out.
The rest of the world still wishes to get involved. I have no idea why, given that they probably have a good idea that it kinda sucks to be in there right now. Oh that’s right, financial gain. But only we are ever accused of doing that. First we are criticized for not minding the wishes of others. Now we are criticized when we do. Can we ever do right in the eyes of the International Community? I find it amusing that since the meat of the fighting is over with, now the French want into Iraq. And others as well.
”I see your point. Has it occurred to you that the Iraqi people might not want anyone there. The French, bless their souls, suggested handing power to the Iraqis within a year. America denied that on the grounds that Iraqis can’t look after themselves. America welcomes UN involvement as long as an American remains in overall control.”
Does France have any idea of the current situation? Is there a problem not wanting to agree to a set timetable when we don’t think it’s feasible in the current situation? If the French can come up with a sensible plan this time I’m sure we’d listen to it. Personally, since the UN had 12 years to solve the problem of Iraq, I think we should get the same.
“Ok, first of all my limited understanding is that the British bear much of the responsibility for the situation in Palestine. However I didn’t see America offering Texas as a Jewish homeland either. As for Israel being the “do no wrong” state of the moment you have never heard me say that.”
I didn’t say you said that, it was a statement on the current political climate in, sadly, Washington, as well as the rest of the world. And there was no reason for anyone to offer them a Jewish homeland. What basis did they have for it? The regime that terrorized them was obliterated. And we wouldn’t have offered up Texas because we had Americans living there. Same as how the British probably shouldn’t have offered up an area which already had its own population.
”British soldiers are dying in Iraq. Had you forgotten they were there? As a military man can you explain why the British are being attacked far less than their US counterparts. Is it because of this ‘Shi’ite triangle’? Or is it because the British have a vastly different attitude to patrolling in cities?”
Or could it be that there are many more US soldiers? Personally I’d rather none of them died, but that’s the way these people want it for some reason. There are Brits, Poles, Aussies, and a few others in there. But the majority presence is still American. Big surprise then that we get most of the casualties. We provide most of the targets.
”During World War 2 many French people were ‘unhappy’ at being occupied, it was only a small percentage though who actively resisted. Foreign terrorists are making the attacks, ok, where’s your evidence?”
Think about it, it does seem to make a little sense. Foreign terrorists, or Iraqis loyal to Saddam who get sponsored by other unsavory organizations or nations, swarm to Iraq due to the security situation to lay into Americans since they also hate us. On one hand you can see our reluctance to leave. It keeps the nastiness way away from our borders, and we get to kill more terrorists as a result. As for France, they weren’t occupied, they were effectively conquered. Hitler wasn’t going to be giving up his farmland. We didn’t conquer Iraq, we took out the old regime and are trying to get the Iraqis moving in the direction of creating a new, stable one.
”The whole idea was to give Iraq to the Iraqis, and to find the as yet undiscovered weapons of mass destruction. Which the British Government decided could be launched within 45 minutes. They must have hidden them damn well. The US Government now says they will need to maintain a presence there for many years. Have you really just swopped one oppressor for another? Look at an Iraqi in Baghdad, have conditions really changed that much? Is the ordinary Iraqi being given an opportunity to express their views democratically? As for your fourth point I can think of a myriad of world problems for which America bears no responsibility, why do you insist on taking the blame?”
Well, they hid parts of their air force pretty damn well, and a MiG-25 isn’t a small aircraft. Ok, an Su-25 is, but still. If they buried the damn things we may never find them. There have been rumors that they were “exported” via Syria to the Bekaa Valley in Lebanon for burial and storage. If this is true, then the only reason we haven’t gone in and dug them up is we’d need to determine how to handle Syria first. We will probably be in Iraq as long as there is a terrorist threat, but we won’t need nearly the size we have in place now. Once the Iraqis train and get their own government and military arm going again they will be able to take care of themselves. Then we can pull out mostly and go back to hunting terrorists for execution. Is Iraq better than it was before? Well, Saddam hasn’t gassed or executed anyone for a while, and they now actually get an unbiased view of events through the media, as opposed to Mr. There Are No Americans In Baghdad. And it’s not that we insist on taking the blame, others just seem willing to arbitrarily assign it to us.
”If you’re going to protect your own best interests then might it not be an idea to catch Osama Bin Laden? There is no evidence that you have caught him, or that your war on terrorism is having a huge effect. Repeated attacks in Iraq, attacks in Bali, Saudi Arabia, Nairobi. Ok, each suicide bombing kills at least one terrorist, but still they make attacks.”
So there’s nothing wrong with protecting out own interests now? And the US war on terror is having an effect. When was the last incident of terrorism inside our border? As for Bin Laden, we’ll get him if we have to take apart Pakistan and Iran to do it. Of course, there’s no conclusive, 100% concrete evidence the man is still alive either…
”Finally, there were some reports in the British press at the weekend that Saddam is negotiating with America for a new life in Russia. I understand that being in the military you can’t actually tell us what you know or don’t know. But in your personal opinion do you think there is the possibility of any truth in these reports?”
I honestly have no clue. I’d like to think that he would be apprehended and sent to The Hague. Maybe if we’re “negotiating” we can get closer to him that way?
I have to say that what I still consider to be an asinine opening argument has sparked an interesting debate. This is probably the most effort I’ve put into a post on this board for a while. [/B][/QUOTE]
SOC
“You can criticize my government all you want. Don’t be surprised if I fire back though. The problem I clearly had was that you were using relatively stupid arguments in my opinion, such as Bush is a bad President because he left Washington before the hurricane.”
OK, I can see your point. But more of that later. As you rightly say this has developed into something far more interesting. I think Hand made an interesting point in this regard. I have been brought up to form my own opinions, make my own mind up about world events. America always seem to stand pretty square behind its Government, to follow the leader as it were. That’s not how I feel, or many others. If I believe my Government is wrong I will say so. I owe that much to those who’ve gone before. Perhaps it is a cultural thing.
“If the only way you can come up with a response is to take a reply I made to someone else completely out of context, do me a favor and just give up now.”
Sorry, can’t do that, I’m stubborn too. At least it provoked a response.
“Now when the hell did we say that this would be an immediate transfer of power? Iraq isn’t going to become the 51st state.”
Iraq already has become the 51st State, at least for the foreseeable future.
” If certain militant individuals would cease and desist they’d find we’d be out of their country a lot sooner. Does anyone choose to focus on that? No, they just want to complain that we’re still in Iraq.”
Fair enough. But with the most sophisticated military and intelligence agencies in the world at work in Iraq doesn’t the American public, and even more its armed forces, have the right to expect that resistance might be quelled quicker than it has?
“Do you really want us to pull out with the country the state it is in now? What’s wrong with wanting to establish a new government? Or have them draft a new constitution?”
If those are your aims it seems the Iraqi people are not satisfied with the rate of progress or their degree of involvement. If the people feel they are more involved and that Government is devolved to them the terrorists and Ba’athists have less support. The more disenfranchised the population are the more likely they are to support terrorism and resistance.
“The whole situation will be rectified. If it takes more time, at least nobody will be able to say we didn’t follow through with it. I still maintain that it would go a lot quicker if we didn’t have to duck and cover every time we walked outside.”
It might be rectified or you could be there for a very long time sustaining significant losses like the Russians in Afghanistan or even like Vietnam. America entered Vietnam with the best of intentions and bought home 50,00 filled body bags. I fear the same could happen in Iraq.
“Apparently some of us did, or we wouldn’t be there now. Again, if we leave them to it isn’t there going to be world outcry about the situation we left Iraq in? It seems this may be one of those “damned if you do, damned if you don’t” scenarios. Pardon us for not taking the easy way out.”
But that’s partly the problem now, there is no longer an easy way out.
The rest of the world still wishes to get involved. I have no idea why, given that they probably have a good idea that it kinda sucks to be in there right now. Oh that’s right, financial gain. But only we are ever accused of doing that. First we are criticized for not minding the wishes of others. Now we are criticized when we do. Can we ever do right in the eyes of the International Community? I find it amusing that since the meat of the fighting is over with, now the French want into Iraq. And others as well.
”I see your point. Has it occurred to you that the Iraqi people might not want anyone there. The French, bless their souls, suggested handing power to the Iraqis within a year. America denied that on the grounds that Iraqis can’t look after themselves. America welcomes UN involvement as long as an American remains in overall control.”
Does France have any idea of the current situation? Is there a problem not wanting to agree to a set timetable when we don’t think it’s feasible in the current situation? If the French can come up with a sensible plan this time I’m sure we’d listen to it. Personally, since the UN had 12 years to solve the problem of Iraq, I think we should get the same.
“Ok, first of all my limited understanding is that the British bear much of the responsibility for the situation in Palestine. However I didn’t see America offering Texas as a Jewish homeland either. As for Israel being the “do no wrong” state of the moment you have never heard me say that.”
I didn’t say you said that, it was a statement on the current political climate in, sadly, Washington, as well as the rest of the world. And there was no reason for anyone to offer them a Jewish homeland. What basis did they have for it? The regime that terrorized them was obliterated. And we wouldn’t have offered up Texas because we had Americans living there. Same as how the British probably shouldn’t have offered up an area which already had its own population.
”British soldiers are dying in Iraq. Had you forgotten they were there? As a military man can you explain why the British are being attacked far less than their US counterparts. Is it because of this ‘Shi’ite triangle’? Or is it because the British have a vastly different attitude to patrolling in cities?”
Or could it be that there are many more US soldiers? Personally I’d rather none of them died, but that’s the way these people want it for some reason. There are Brits, Poles, Aussies, and a few others in there. But the majority presence is still American. Big surprise then that we get most of the casualties. We provide most of the targets.
”During World War 2 many French people were ‘unhappy’ at being occupied, it was only a small percentage though who actively resisted. Foreign terrorists are making the attacks, ok, where’s your evidence?”
Think about it, it does seem to make a little sense. Foreign terrorists, or Iraqis loyal to Saddam who get sponsored by other unsavory organizations or nations, swarm to Iraq due to the security situation to lay into Americans since they also hate us. On one hand you can see our reluctance to leave. It keeps the nastiness way away from our borders, and we get to kill more terrorists as a result. As for France, they weren’t occupied, they were effectively conquered. Hitler wasn’t going to be giving up his farmland. We didn’t conquer Iraq, we took out the old regime and are trying to get the Iraqis moving in the direction of creating a new, stable one.
”The whole idea was to give Iraq to the Iraqis, and to find the as yet undiscovered weapons of mass destruction. Which the British Government decided could be launched within 45 minutes. They must have hidden them damn well. The US Government now says they will need to maintain a presence there for many years. Have you really just swopped one oppressor for another? Look at an Iraqi in Baghdad, have conditions really changed that much? Is the ordinary Iraqi being given an opportunity to express their views democratically? As for your fourth point I can think of a myriad of world problems for which America bears no responsibility, why do you insist on taking the blame?”
Well, they hid parts of their air force pretty damn well, and a MiG-25 isn’t a small aircraft. Ok, an Su-25 is, but still. If they buried the damn things we may never find them. There have been rumors that they were “exported” via Syria to the Bekaa Valley in Lebanon for burial and storage. If this is true, then the only reason we haven’t gone in and dug them up is we’d need to determine how to handle Syria first. We will probably be in Iraq as long as there is a terrorist threat, but we won’t need nearly the size we have in place now. Once the Iraqis train and get their own government and military arm going again they will be able to take care of themselves. Then we can pull out mostly and go back to hunting terrorists for execution. Is Iraq better than it was before? Well, Saddam hasn’t gassed or executed anyone for a while, and they now actually get an unbiased view of events through the media, as opposed to Mr. There Are No Americans In Baghdad. And it’s not that we insist on taking the blame, others just seem willing to arbitrarily assign it to us.
”If you’re going to protect your own best interests then might it not be an idea to catch Osama Bin Laden? There is no evidence that you have caught him, or that your war on terrorism is having a huge effect. Repeated attacks in Iraq, attacks in Bali, Saudi Arabia, Nairobi. Ok, each suicide bombing kills at least one terrorist, but still they make attacks.”
So there’s nothing wrong with protecting out own interests now? And the US war on terror is having an effect. When was the last incident of terrorism inside our border? As for Bin Laden, we’ll get him if we have to take apart Pakistan and Iran to do it. Of course, there’s no conclusive, 100% concrete evidence the man is still alive either…
”Finally, there were some reports in the British press at the weekend that Saddam is negotiating with America for a new life in Russia. I understand that being in the military you can’t actually tell us what you know or don’t know. But in your personal opinion do you think there is the possibility of any truth in these reports?”
I honestly have no clue. I’d like to think that he would be apprehended and sent to The Hague. Maybe if we’re “negotiating” we can get closer to him that way?
I have to say that what I still consider to be an asinine opening argument has sparked an interesting debate. This is probably the most effort I’ve put into a post on this board for a while. [/B][/QUOTE]
SOC.
Your xenophobic hatred of anyone who even considers criticising your Government is all too clear. Politically correct? Of course not, wouldn’t expect you to be. Your opinion is that America is always right, can do no wrong, will not even admit to the slightest little bit of criticism being correct. It must be wonderful to have so much faith in your leadership. Whatever the outcome of their decisions, even when its victims are your own soldiers. I have great respect for people who join the armed forces and can’t understand why any Government would be so eager to waste their lives in this way.
“So you’re saying that the United States should ignore what’s in its own best interests and give in to the rest of the world? I understand.”
At last, you now admit it is all about oil.
“I know, let France and Germany take over.”
I thought the idea was to let the Iraqis take over wasn’t it?
“That’s what you all want anyway, isn’t it? For France, Germany, and the rest of Europe to give the US the finger by going in and saving the day in Iraq, and getting rich in the process? At least then we can all gripe and complain when progress hasn’t been made after six months. No wait, that won’t happen, it’ll be America’s fault for turning over power too soon!”
No, that’s not what I want. Pull them all out and leave them to it. Iraqis demonstrate in the street at their dissatisfaction over ‘progress’ being made, or not, as the case may be. The situation is muddied when the Americans recruit Iraqi policemen and then shoot them. US patrols are attacked every day by Iraqis who are dissatisfied by their presence. The whole situation is a mess and is not going to be rectified for many, many years. Even George Bush Sr. said last week it would go on for years.
JFK once made a speech about the Apollo missions. “Why go to the moon? Why go to the moon and do the other thing? Not because they are easy, but because they are hard.” The other thing turned out to be Vietnam. Can you not see you are in danger of falling into that situation again?
“Uncomfortable in Iraq? Sorry for getting shot at almost daily. That kinda tends to make one a little uncomfortable.”
I appreciate that, I think it would tend to make you more than a little uncomfortable. Again, the forces have my respect.
“I just hope we start taking a more proactive effort to weed out all the asshats who want to ruin the situation for everyone. Seek and destroy. If that doesn’t work, slash and burn. Let the rest of the world complain that we are unfairly trying to protect the lives of our soldiers.”
Leave them to it then your soldiers are not in danger. America had no qualms about leaving Iraq alone for twelve years after abandoning the Kurds.
“Asking for UN intervention? And you choose to complain? The world badgers us and we decide to seek the UNs help, like France and others wanted in the first place, and now you complain that we are asking for UN intervention.”
Not complaining, just pointing out the fact that after telling the rest of the world that you were going it alone you now seek help as the situation deteriorates.
“Good idea. The last bomb was directed at the UN compound in Baghdad. I guess that means the UN has no business there either. And it also means that when civilians are intentionally being targeted, there is terrorism present! Since there is terrorism present, pulling our military out and leaving the civilian administrators in there to get things moving would be very stupid.”
I see your point. Has it occurred to you that the Iraqi people might not want anyone there. The French, bless their souls, suggested handing power to the Iraqis within a year. America denied that on the grounds that Iraqis can’t look after themselves. America welcomes UN involvement as long as an American remains in overall control.
“If you want US soldiers out of Iraq since they are dying at the hands of Islamic terrorism, you should be supportive of Israeli soldiers getting completely out of Palestinian territories for the same reason. Sorry, nevermind, I forgot Israel is the “can do no wrong” state of the moment. Even though some idiot Brits put the Jewish people in Palestine in the first place I bet we can still find a way to blame this one on the US of A!”
Ok, first of all my limited understanding is that the British bear much of the responsibility for the situation in Palestine. However I didn’t see America offering Texas as a Jewish homeland either. As for Israel being the “do no wrong” state of the moment you have never heard me say that.
“Actually I have no problem getting out of Iraq. Let’s see how much you people all appreciate the crap we’ve been through over there when it’s European military individuals getting shot and killed weekly.”
British soldiers are dying in Iraq. Had you forgotten they were there? As a military man can you explain why the British are being attacked far less than their US counterparts. Is it because of this ‘Shi’ite triangle’? Or is it because the British have a vastly different attitude to patrolling in cities?
“If there were that many Iraqis unhappy with our presence, we’d have a much bigger problem now, wouldn’t we? Here’s something for you to consider. Do you have evidence showing that it has been an Iraqi who committed every single attack against our forces? Think about that for a minute and things might begin to seem a little clearer…”
During World War 2 many French people were ‘unhappy’ at being occupied, it was only a small percentage though who actively resisted. Foreign terrorists are making the attacks, ok, where’s your evidence?
“Again, we didn’t get drafted. We are all volunteers. We knew the risks when we signed up.
Let’s see, to sum up:
1. “Iraqi’s” keep killing Americans. Therefore America should leave Iraq.
2. “Iraqi’s” have attacked the UN in Iraq. Therefore the UN shouldn’t be allowed to be there either.
3. The only solution is to let Iraq rebuild itself with no outside involvement. That about sums up your position, right?
4. Oh and I almost forgot, every world problem is a result of Bush and the evil United States.”
The whole idea was to give Iraq to the Iraqis, and to find the as yet undiscovered weapons of mass destruction. Which the British Government decided could be launched within 45 minutes. They must have hidden them damn well. The US Government now says they will need to maintain a presence there for many years. Have you really just swopped one oppressor for another? Look at an Iraqi in Baghdad, have conditions really changed that much? Is the ordinary Iraqi being given an opportunity to express their views democratically? As for your fourth point I can think of a myriad of world problems for which America bears no responsibility, why do you insist on taking the blame?
“So you’re saying that the United States should ignore what’s in its own best interests and give in to the rest of the world? I understand. What you’re saying we need to do is adopt Neville Chamberlain’s strategy of appeasement. Riiiiiight.”
If you’re going to protect your own best interests then might it not be an idea to catch Osama Bin Laden? There is no evidence that you have caught him, or that your war on terrorism is having a huge effect. Repeated attacks in Iraq, attacks in Bali, Saudi Arabia, Nairobi. Ok, each suicide bombing kills at least one terrorist, but still they make attacks.
Finally, there were some reports in the British press at the weekend that Saddam is negotiating with America for a new life in Russia. I understand that being in the military you can’t actually tell us what you know or don’t know. But in your personal opinion do you think there is the possibility of any truth in these reports?
Regards,
kev35
SOC.
Your xenophobic hatred of anyone who even considers criticising your Government is all too clear. Politically correct? Of course not, wouldn’t expect you to be. Your opinion is that America is always right, can do no wrong, will not even admit to the slightest little bit of criticism being correct. It must be wonderful to have so much faith in your leadership. Whatever the outcome of their decisions, even when its victims are your own soldiers. I have great respect for people who join the armed forces and can’t understand why any Government would be so eager to waste their lives in this way.
“So you’re saying that the United States should ignore what’s in its own best interests and give in to the rest of the world? I understand.”
At last, you now admit it is all about oil.
“I know, let France and Germany take over.”
I thought the idea was to let the Iraqis take over wasn’t it?
“That’s what you all want anyway, isn’t it? For France, Germany, and the rest of Europe to give the US the finger by going in and saving the day in Iraq, and getting rich in the process? At least then we can all gripe and complain when progress hasn’t been made after six months. No wait, that won’t happen, it’ll be America’s fault for turning over power too soon!”
No, that’s not what I want. Pull them all out and leave them to it. Iraqis demonstrate in the street at their dissatisfaction over ‘progress’ being made, or not, as the case may be. The situation is muddied when the Americans recruit Iraqi policemen and then shoot them. US patrols are attacked every day by Iraqis who are dissatisfied by their presence. The whole situation is a mess and is not going to be rectified for many, many years. Even George Bush Sr. said last week it would go on for years.
JFK once made a speech about the Apollo missions. “Why go to the moon? Why go to the moon and do the other thing? Not because they are easy, but because they are hard.” The other thing turned out to be Vietnam. Can you not see you are in danger of falling into that situation again?
“Uncomfortable in Iraq? Sorry for getting shot at almost daily. That kinda tends to make one a little uncomfortable.”
I appreciate that, I think it would tend to make you more than a little uncomfortable. Again, the forces have my respect.
“I just hope we start taking a more proactive effort to weed out all the asshats who want to ruin the situation for everyone. Seek and destroy. If that doesn’t work, slash and burn. Let the rest of the world complain that we are unfairly trying to protect the lives of our soldiers.”
Leave them to it then your soldiers are not in danger. America had no qualms about leaving Iraq alone for twelve years after abandoning the Kurds.
“Asking for UN intervention? And you choose to complain? The world badgers us and we decide to seek the UNs help, like France and others wanted in the first place, and now you complain that we are asking for UN intervention.”
Not complaining, just pointing out the fact that after telling the rest of the world that you were going it alone you now seek help as the situation deteriorates.
“Good idea. The last bomb was directed at the UN compound in Baghdad. I guess that means the UN has no business there either. And it also means that when civilians are intentionally being targeted, there is terrorism present! Since there is terrorism present, pulling our military out and leaving the civilian administrators in there to get things moving would be very stupid.”
I see your point. Has it occurred to you that the Iraqi people might not want anyone there. The French, bless their souls, suggested handing power to the Iraqis within a year. America denied that on the grounds that Iraqis can’t look after themselves. America welcomes UN involvement as long as an American remains in overall control.
“If you want US soldiers out of Iraq since they are dying at the hands of Islamic terrorism, you should be supportive of Israeli soldiers getting completely out of Palestinian territories for the same reason. Sorry, nevermind, I forgot Israel is the “can do no wrong” state of the moment. Even though some idiot Brits put the Jewish people in Palestine in the first place I bet we can still find a way to blame this one on the US of A!”
Ok, first of all my limited understanding is that the British bear much of the responsibility for the situation in Palestine. However I didn’t see America offering Texas as a Jewish homeland either. As for Israel being the “do no wrong” state of the moment you have never heard me say that.
“Actually I have no problem getting out of Iraq. Let’s see how much you people all appreciate the crap we’ve been through over there when it’s European military individuals getting shot and killed weekly.”
British soldiers are dying in Iraq. Had you forgotten they were there? As a military man can you explain why the British are being attacked far less than their US counterparts. Is it because of this ‘Shi’ite triangle’? Or is it because the British have a vastly different attitude to patrolling in cities?
“If there were that many Iraqis unhappy with our presence, we’d have a much bigger problem now, wouldn’t we? Here’s something for you to consider. Do you have evidence showing that it has been an Iraqi who committed every single attack against our forces? Think about that for a minute and things might begin to seem a little clearer…”
During World War 2 many French people were ‘unhappy’ at being occupied, it was only a small percentage though who actively resisted. Foreign terrorists are making the attacks, ok, where’s your evidence?
“Again, we didn’t get drafted. We are all volunteers. We knew the risks when we signed up.
Let’s see, to sum up:
1. “Iraqi’s” keep killing Americans. Therefore America should leave Iraq.
2. “Iraqi’s” have attacked the UN in Iraq. Therefore the UN shouldn’t be allowed to be there either.
3. The only solution is to let Iraq rebuild itself with no outside involvement. That about sums up your position, right?
4. Oh and I almost forgot, every world problem is a result of Bush and the evil United States.”
The whole idea was to give Iraq to the Iraqis, and to find the as yet undiscovered weapons of mass destruction. Which the British Government decided could be launched within 45 minutes. They must have hidden them damn well. The US Government now says they will need to maintain a presence there for many years. Have you really just swopped one oppressor for another? Look at an Iraqi in Baghdad, have conditions really changed that much? Is the ordinary Iraqi being given an opportunity to express their views democratically? As for your fourth point I can think of a myriad of world problems for which America bears no responsibility, why do you insist on taking the blame?
“So you’re saying that the United States should ignore what’s in its own best interests and give in to the rest of the world? I understand. What you’re saying we need to do is adopt Neville Chamberlain’s strategy of appeasement. Riiiiiight.”
If you’re going to protect your own best interests then might it not be an idea to catch Osama Bin Laden? There is no evidence that you have caught him, or that your war on terrorism is having a huge effect. Repeated attacks in Iraq, attacks in Bali, Saudi Arabia, Nairobi. Ok, each suicide bombing kills at least one terrorist, but still they make attacks.
Finally, there were some reports in the British press at the weekend that Saddam is negotiating with America for a new life in Russia. I understand that being in the military you can’t actually tell us what you know or don’t know. But in your personal opinion do you think there is the possibility of any truth in these reports?
Regards,
kev35
Little and large
A few more, a CAC 747
Many happy returns of the day, Jeroen. I hope you have a pleasant day.
Regards,
kev35
SOC.
First of all, I am not anti-American. Why should I be? Many Americans died during the Second World War, in Europe and the Pacific. It is their sacrifice, and the sacrifice of soldiers of many other Nations which secured our freedom.
“The whole point of knowing the hurricane was coming, was to GET OUT OF THE WAY. You’d prefer if your leader stood in front of some avoidable natural disaster and let himself and his administration possibly get killed? That is totally asinine.”
Don’t be stupid. I wasn’t suggesting that he went and stood at Kill Devil Hills. However, if the White House doesn’t have some kind of a bunker or shelter where he could have sought refuge, HAD IT BEEN NECESSARY, I’d be very surprised. Instead he chose to say bu**er you to those who were in danger and headed off to comfortable Camp David.
“I do believe there are far more people in the Gulf who would love a chance at Bush’s head than at Blair’s. Walking into an area you know there is a potential threat to prove some macho point is also stupid. I’m not faulting Blair for going, but I am not faulting Bush for not going either.”
I don’t agree. If one can go why not another. Various senior members of the US Government have visited. It seems then that by the attitude shown here their lives are more expendable than that of Bush.
“Besides, the minute he sets foot in Baghdad, all the Bush-haters out there will undoubtedly cry foul and claim he is in some way lording over his new conquest. Yes, the actual war against Iraq is over. Why? The regime is out of power. Now, as we try to begin rebuilding the infrastructure and helping to get the democratic process started, some irritated individuals decide to impede our progress. I say we get out now and leave them in the state they’re in (pardon the pun). Transfer power completely tomorrow, and go home.”
For once I agree. Leave them to it. At present you can’t say there’s much of an improvement and the US is showing signs of being very uncomfortable in Iraq at the moment. Remember your Government’s boasts about going it alone? Aren’t they currently asking for UN intervention? As the increasing number of Americans die how long will it be before your people demand their return?
“”Not too dangerous for the troops?” What is wrong with you? That’s our JOB. The President is there to lead, we are there to execute the mission. And we do it without hesitation, and without regard to the feelings of other world leaders. When we are given a job to do, it will be done. Whether you like it or not, that is our job.”
The war is over. Are they to remain there indefinitely with casualties running as high as seven a week? Not many is it, 350 a year? And for what? I have no doubt about the courage of US servicemen, however I think it is criminal to waste their lives in this way. As you say, they have done their job, pull out and leave them to it.
“You seem to consider Iraq as still being an active war zone, and fault Bush for not visiting the troops, so lets go with that for a minute. By your logic Churchill wasn’t a good leader because he didn’t visit the British troops on the front lines in Germany.”
But it’s not an active war zone, President Bush told us so, I heard him. You won the war. It’s a totally different situation. But if you want to use history take a look at King George V and the Prince of Wales in the Great War.
“US troops are still dying in Iraq because of terrorism. We face that threat all over the world. But you don’t see us hiding out and crying to foreign leaders for reparation payments for our dead, no matter how justified said payments may be in those cases currently in the media spotlight. We are going out and doing something about it. That seems to be the problem here.”
So did you win the war or not? Enough Iraqis are unhappy with the result of your efforts that they make up to fifteen attacks a day on your troops. Fortunately, most of them are unsuccessful. You may remember that quite a number of British service personnel were and still are operating in Iraq.
“Here’s the difference between Americans and most other people in the world. Most everyone else wants to sit back and bitch about the world’s problems, but complain when someone suggests doing anything about them, and speak out agressively against someone who actually takes initiative and does something about them. We actively pursue solutions, and then get ridiculed for solving problems without consulting the people who were content to merely complain about them.”
But always, you choose the military option. I take my hat off to service personnel in Iraq, whatever their nationalities, they are operating under intolerable conditions. I just question the value of losing them, volunteers, in a conflict which the Iraqi people clearly wish to continue.
Regards,
kev35
SOC.
First of all, I am not anti-American. Why should I be? Many Americans died during the Second World War, in Europe and the Pacific. It is their sacrifice, and the sacrifice of soldiers of many other Nations which secured our freedom.
“The whole point of knowing the hurricane was coming, was to GET OUT OF THE WAY. You’d prefer if your leader stood in front of some avoidable natural disaster and let himself and his administration possibly get killed? That is totally asinine.”
Don’t be stupid. I wasn’t suggesting that he went and stood at Kill Devil Hills. However, if the White House doesn’t have some kind of a bunker or shelter where he could have sought refuge, HAD IT BEEN NECESSARY, I’d be very surprised. Instead he chose to say bu**er you to those who were in danger and headed off to comfortable Camp David.
“I do believe there are far more people in the Gulf who would love a chance at Bush’s head than at Blair’s. Walking into an area you know there is a potential threat to prove some macho point is also stupid. I’m not faulting Blair for going, but I am not faulting Bush for not going either.”
I don’t agree. If one can go why not another. Various senior members of the US Government have visited. It seems then that by the attitude shown here their lives are more expendable than that of Bush.
“Besides, the minute he sets foot in Baghdad, all the Bush-haters out there will undoubtedly cry foul and claim he is in some way lording over his new conquest. Yes, the actual war against Iraq is over. Why? The regime is out of power. Now, as we try to begin rebuilding the infrastructure and helping to get the democratic process started, some irritated individuals decide to impede our progress. I say we get out now and leave them in the state they’re in (pardon the pun). Transfer power completely tomorrow, and go home.”
For once I agree. Leave them to it. At present you can’t say there’s much of an improvement and the US is showing signs of being very uncomfortable in Iraq at the moment. Remember your Government’s boasts about going it alone? Aren’t they currently asking for UN intervention? As the increasing number of Americans die how long will it be before your people demand their return?
“”Not too dangerous for the troops?” What is wrong with you? That’s our JOB. The President is there to lead, we are there to execute the mission. And we do it without hesitation, and without regard to the feelings of other world leaders. When we are given a job to do, it will be done. Whether you like it or not, that is our job.”
The war is over. Are they to remain there indefinitely with casualties running as high as seven a week? Not many is it, 350 a year? And for what? I have no doubt about the courage of US servicemen, however I think it is criminal to waste their lives in this way. As you say, they have done their job, pull out and leave them to it.
“You seem to consider Iraq as still being an active war zone, and fault Bush for not visiting the troops, so lets go with that for a minute. By your logic Churchill wasn’t a good leader because he didn’t visit the British troops on the front lines in Germany.”
But it’s not an active war zone, President Bush told us so, I heard him. You won the war. It’s a totally different situation. But if you want to use history take a look at King George V and the Prince of Wales in the Great War.
“US troops are still dying in Iraq because of terrorism. We face that threat all over the world. But you don’t see us hiding out and crying to foreign leaders for reparation payments for our dead, no matter how justified said payments may be in those cases currently in the media spotlight. We are going out and doing something about it. That seems to be the problem here.”
So did you win the war or not? Enough Iraqis are unhappy with the result of your efforts that they make up to fifteen attacks a day on your troops. Fortunately, most of them are unsuccessful. You may remember that quite a number of British service personnel were and still are operating in Iraq.
“Here’s the difference between Americans and most other people in the world. Most everyone else wants to sit back and bitch about the world’s problems, but complain when someone suggests doing anything about them, and speak out agressively against someone who actually takes initiative and does something about them. We actively pursue solutions, and then get ridiculed for solving problems without consulting the people who were content to merely complain about them.”
But always, you choose the military option. I take my hat off to service personnel in Iraq, whatever their nationalities, they are operating under intolerable conditions. I just question the value of losing them, volunteers, in a conflict which the Iraqi people clearly wish to continue.
Regards,
kev35
And again…
LN Strike Eagle.
If the objects far enough away (ie, too far) I use the lot!
I do like these in this scheme….
Learjet LX-PAT
Hi, Rick.
I got the same reply today. Wonder how many of those who complained were from the forum?
Regards,
kev35