September 11 - a lesson for whom?

Certainly terrorism is a threat. There is also no disputing that those responsible for acts of terrorism in any shape or form must be held accountable. Individuals or states who are responsible for acts of terrorism should be prosecuted, but the world will never accept that superpowers should be allowed to turn this process to their advantage in order to cash in on vested interests.

Terrorism cannot be eliminated by terror. Violence cannot be eliminated by violence. And thoughts and philosophies cannot be changed by using power. Freedom is important for everyone no matter what country, race and belief they belong to. The democratic rule of civic societies has to be delivered in troubled countries by peaceful means not by power.

In fact, the incessant blunders on strategic and policy issues by the Bush administration have not only badly damaged the US’s reputation but have created more enemies than friends since 9-11.

The ongoing inflexible and offensive policies of the Bush administration have brought a series of management problems for Bush and for other countries which remain in the coalition. For example; John Howard has lost huge support among Australians over the war in Iraq and the prolonged stay of Australian forces there. The opposition leader, Kevin Rudd, who is receiving growing support in the lead up to the next election, has already announced his plans to commence withdrawing Australian troops from Iraq.

The 6th anniversary of 9-11 might be a last chance for President Bush to reassess his policies, accept the mistakes, reassess and revise strategy and face the realities of the day. At the same time, the people of the United States and its allies need to compel their leaders to work for the creation of a threat-free environment for smaller countries and to make this world really a safe place for everyone.