State budget woes concern but don’t deter college president’s goals
Terrorism is defined by Webster’s dictionary as “the unlawful use or threatened use of force or violence against individuals or property in an attempt to coerce or intimidate governments or societies to achieve political, religious or ideological objectives.” Currently, the United States has a military presence in countries such as Afghanistan and Iraq due to their support of terrorist organizations. Although these conflicts originated long before President Obama took office, he is still adamant about the war on terrorism being one America must win. In a speech on August 1, 2007, Obama committed America to the war on terror by supporting “developing the capabilities and partnerships we need to take out the terrorists and the world’s most deadly weapons; engaging the world to dry up support for terror and extremism; restoring our values; and securing a more resilient homeland.”
In the wake of increased attacks of international ships off the Somali coast by pirates who are basically terrorists using boats, the international community has stepped up its military presence in these waters. However, all this seems to do is embolden the pirates to attack more vessels and kill more innocent people, all in the pursuit of money.
Why are we not pursuing these terrorist groups where they live? Why are we content to be reactionary and only intervene when they hijack another ship?
The United States, along with the rest of the world, should be proactive and dedicate military troops to ending this terrorist threat. Even if we don’t commit ourselves militarily, the least we can do is to work hand in hand with the Somalia government and give them the infrastructure and support they need to make a stand against these terrorists. Without a land base in which to launch operations from, these pirates will become vulnerable and quickly crumble.
If President Obama is honest in his policies of taking on terrorists and making America a much-needed example to the world community, he will surely dedicate resources to ending this crisis in Somalia.