A difficult lesson. One that children and nations must learn. One to keep in mind when speaking of "proportionate responnses". I didn't hear too many voices in that chorus on 9/12/01. Those that were in favor of such a response were wise enough to keep their heads down.

That Israel hasn't learned this lesson is a testament to the void left by Sharon and remains unfilled by Olmert. Iran and the Arab world have learned that they can use non-state actors as a proxy against their enemies. They need only keep themselves as embedded with the civilians to ensure international condemnation and media victories if there are reprisals.

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