Remember "Those Sixteen Words"...

...from President Bush's 2003 State of the Union address?

Not only was it determined those words were true, it also turns out the official that disclosed Valerie Plame's name was Richard Armitage, a State Department official that was opposed to Bush's Iraq policy. In addition, Armitage, Colin Powell, and George Tenet were all in position to end this contrived controversy and all neglected to do so. What reasons could they possibly have in undermining the administration? Perhaps it boils down to the incompetent heads of the State Department and CIA desiring to deflect attention from their poor performance.

Tribalism Versus Globalism

Ralph Peters makes some very interesting points in the new issue of The Weekly Standard, including the observation that one of the most powerful forces preventing the spread of Islamism is the traditional animistic beliefs of millions in the developing world. In many societies, the spread of Islam (and Christianity as well) has been tempered by continuing, persistant faith in the local traditional beliefs. If we are to successfully combat the spread of militant Islamism, it is necessary for our leaders to both acknowledge and respect these local beliefs, even knowing they may be just as at odds with our desire for the spread of American-style democracy. A long article, but very much worth the time to read.

Humorless Religion

Moses, Jesus, and Muhammed walk into a bar...

I know Muslims have a sense of humor because I have personally seen Muslims laughing. If only some of that humor could be aimed at Islam...

Let Them Win...

...stop the endless calls for peace. Stop the condemnation of Israel. Stop the "victimization" of Palestinians and Lebanese who brought this war on themselves.

Let Israel finish the job.