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Who Are the Good Guys?

Entry 260, on 2005-12-05 at 15:00:51 (Rating 4, News)

I was reading a report from the BBC web site today on "interrogation techniques" used by the CIA, and I'm beginning to wonder "who are the good guys". Of course, we would normally support our long time allies, the USA, but it seem to be they are using tactics which would make you wonder if they are any better than the "evil terrorists" they are fighting.

Some people might say that the end justifies the means. If a prisoner reveals information which might prevent future attacks, or help maintain order in the Middle East, then why not use torture (which is really what these interrogation techniques are) to achieve it?

The US, and its allies, say they are fighting a war against terror. Well that's highly debatable of course, but if the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are going to achieve anything worthwhile for the people there (instead of the big corporations who are the main beneficiaries so far) its important that the "good guys" maintain the highest moral standards. What's the point in being rescued from a dictator if the forces rescuing you engage in similar "evil" behaviour?

I suppose its too late now. There have been so many incidents showing America for what it really is: a country of poor moral standards with a hypocritical leadership. What is really needed is a totally different approach, the current military action just isn't working. Let's put US troops under the control of the UN and start real peace-keeping while negotiations which will benefit the countries illegally invaded are started.

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