We might consider how terrorism elsewhere has been slowed, almost stopped. Take Ireland--it is much more peaceful there now than 20, 30, 40 years ago. Was military force the answer? No, it took a hashing out by negotiators from both sides, acknowledgment that there was wrong on both sides, a willingness to compromise, and outside diplomatic help.

A perfect parallel to Al Quaeda? Of course not, but the positions were very entrenched, and the history very long and nasty. And of course, there was a religious component. Somehow, someone convinced leaders from both sides that endless slaughter would not triumph over anything.

Joe B.