But notwithstanding these commitments, people in Europe, the Left, and the human rights industry routinely condemn us for torturing and abusing unlawful combatants swept up off the battlefields of the war on terror.
Somehow, this new law that prohibits torture and other lesser abuses (no more panties on heads or barking dogs, I guess) will reassure those who scream about gulags. Said Senator McCain:
We've sent a message to the world that the United States is not like the terrorists," McCain said earlier as he sat next to Bush in the Oval Office. "We have no grief for them, but what we are is a nation that upholds values and standards of behavior and treatment of all people, no matter how evil or bad they are. And I think this will help us enormously in winning the war for the hearts and minds of people throughout the world in the war on terror."
Now, I respect the senator. I think he truly wants us to win. I trust him even if I disagree on something.
But I think his reasoning is ridiculous. Who really believes that the Left, the Eurotrash, the media, and the human rights aparatchiki will mute their constant criticism because we have--again--outlawed torture? Terrorists will still scream about imaginary torture and the usual suspects who condemn America as easily as they breathe will not remain silent.
If there really are people out there who don't know we are better than the terrorists, I have no use for their hearts and minds.
The really funny thing about this, is that a measure intended to protect detainees will probably just get more killed. After all, under international law we are fully justified in shooting unlawful combatants on the spot. If we can't pressure them with unpleasant methods--not torture them--into talking, why hold them? Why risk their escape or release and return to the war?
Wait. Listen closely. I think I just heard our rules of engagement being edited.
