Pines,

Maybe I wasn't very clear, let's try again. I'm starting from a long term view and how that affects national security. Let's leave the run up to Iraq to the side, even I know BIG mistakes have been made but it's a separate discussion.

One hundred years ago mid-east instability had negligible affect on this country, big distance with slow transportation. Today problems go global real quick. Do you agree that we must confront mid-east instability in some fashion? I don't mean war only but the whole range of conflict resolution. You said you are not an isolationist so I assume yes, solve the problem in some fashion.

Now how long? Yes, I just made a big jump to make a point. Regardless of the method of problem solving, negotiations or outright war, should it be solved even if it takes a long time? That's my point.

Even if the run up had problems it is our problem now. We must fix it. I don't think we broke Iraq but we were the final straw in a web of HUGE problems and we must see it through.

How did I do? Clear as mud or am I off track?

All good discussions here. I don't agree with everybody here but keep the points coming. National security as it pertains to the military is very near and dear to the hearts of us that wore/wear the uniform.

Take care,

SC