is the continuing emphasis, first by bin Laden and then by the Deputy Defense Minister of the Taliban on Al Jazeera, put on the idea that the West is on a Crusade, that it is a war between Islam and the West, that Muslims everywhere should rise to the defense of their religion and eliminate the sinning Christians, etc.
I KNOW most Muslims condemn the Taliban and Al Qaeda as extremist criminals, but I fear that the onslaught of pro-Muslim/anti-West rhetoric will win them some support, and make our job even harder.
mr jennings pointed out in bin laden’s tape he never mentioned afghanistan or the people of afghanistan. it certainly show where bin laden’s priorities are.
It’s important to remember that the reason for the bombing taking place right now is not retaliation, but so that it will be safe for our pilots to enter their airspace in order to provide those humanitarian supplies. They’re targeting what they know to be areas where there are ground to air missiles, as well as other military installations that could cause harm to our pilots as they attempt to drop supplies.
Another thing to think about is that there was alot of anti-aircraft fire going on by the Taliban against us. Anti-aircraft fire that never found a target. It was deployed, and what goes up must come down, which results in unaimed shrapnel raining down where ever. Injuries to the Afghani people will result, so bear that in mind during future broadcasts and reports.
I also can’t help but think of the humanitarian aid food and medication that’s been dropped. Is any of it going to get to the people that need it? Or will the Taliban take it by force from the people? Or release reports not to touch it because it’s booby trapped or poisoned or something?
That may be a primary objective, but there seem to be others as well. For example, Mullah Mohammad Omar’s home was bombed, which I’d think is not directly related to protecting U.S. pilots on relief missions. [sub]Not that I’m shedding a tear over chez Omar. Fuck him.[/sub]