[RobUK]

Aside from the rights and wrongs of these specific allegations, the tragedy of it all is the obvious pounding that America's Image is taking in the court of world opinion.
Majority of the victories in this war with ever shifting/shadowy enemies is won in hearts and minds and to flagrantly disregard this fact is both short sighted and counterproductive.

No place is 100% terror proof from a determined predator. But with public opinion on ones side, they can be less of a target or more importantly, feel secure in the fact that they honestly and justly have nothing to fear.

If we are to hold America up as a beacon of freedom, and accord it all the advantages that accrue therefrom, It is worthy of note therefore, that there are actions too unconscionable for the same country to be engaged in, no matter how justified they may seem at the time,..."To whom more is given More is expected.."

The danger with the way this war on terror is being fought, is that the very values and principles that has made the United States the envy of the free world, run the risk of being gradually eroded, and sadly handing the baddies the Victory in the end. Lets face it winning the war but losing the battle is a hollow victory.