Diplomacy is the optimal route anymore and it’s difficult for a hostile nation to remain at odds with another if a high level of decorum and kindness is shown. Iran is rightfully on the defensive as a country surrounded by American-occupied nations. It’s important to at least make Ahmadinejad feel we are a reasonable people. Israel is heavily subsidized by the U.S. and in many ways the road to peace and compromise will involve us directly.
Greg Bakr
Spokane

(...) No doubt mistakes were made during and since the invasion, not the least of which was the failure to secure munitions sites and pitiful troop levels. (...)

The world is a mean place. People like Jon Tuning, a Dr. Ron Paul supporter ("Paul for president," Sept. 25), look through rose-colored glasses if they think these regimes want to coexist. Any sign of weakness will be exploited in Europe or here. I suggest surging the surge and letting the military do what they do best. Kill the enemy. The terrorists will get tired of being targeted.
Roger Dudley
Spokane

What's the right philosophy to deal with a sticky Middle East situation? Death, diplomacy, other?

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