Christian hostages murdered by Somali Pirates

[pelathais]

Originally Posted by Socialite

Blood, war and revenge. Totally sounds like Mt 5-7 ethics -- not!!

Note: Somolia is a nation, not sure where you got your facts on that one. Also, did you read Sec Clinton's statement posted?

"Blood" and "war" need not necessarily involve "revenge." Making war against the pirates could be argued as a means of preventing future bloodshed. These pirates have shown themselves to be willing to kill their hostages in the past.

Of course, effectively wiping out the murderers without resorting to carpet bombing of the coast is going to be dicey. Somalia is a "nation" in name only. It's not a state and has no government outside of the warring tribes. Which tribes are more friendly toward Western and International interests and which are more prone to violence and bloodshed?

It's a mess where no warlord has been powerful enough to get the others to bow - so it remains a mess. Add to it, there is really little short term interest for anyone over there to change things. At least as things stand now. The people need hope. They need to see that civilized behavior can be at least as rewarding as piracy and their eternal feuds.

[Socialite]

Originally Posted by pelathais

"Blood" and "war" need not necessarily involve "revenge." Making war against the pirates could be argued as a means of preventing future bloodshed. These pirates have shown themselves to be willing to kill their hostages in the past.

Of course, effectively wiping out the murderers without resorting to carpet bombing of the coast is going to be dicey. Somalia is a "nation" in name only. It's not a state and has no government outside of the warring tribes. Which tribes are more friendly toward Western and International interests and which are more prone to violence and bloodshed?

It's a mess where no warlord has been powerful enough to get the others to bow - so it remains a mess. Add to it, there is really little short term interest for anyone over there to change things. At least as things stand now. The people need hope. They need to see that civilized behavior can be at least as rewarding as piracy and their eternal feuds.

I think there's no question that a greater military presence (internationally) is required in this region. More than what we have there. That's also risky and vulnerable for the US, anytime we have sizable forces somewhere. Right now, it's almost best to have alternative routes (which is what this one was) and to secure those waters. Picking and choosing battles.

Either way, as a Christian, the idea of me screaming "WAR!" just never settles right.