...the better idea.

George Bush is critical of those of us who would talk to our enemies. Well, the problem with Bush is that he often doesn't even bother to talk to our friends. Our allies. If I had my way, we Americans would talk to everyone. Our enemies. Even 'terrorists.' Friends and foes. Because that's how issues get resolved. Without going to war. Sure beats killing each other.

Bush said on his trip to Israel that there should be no appeasing with Israel's perceived enemies. Maybe he should try to grasp the concept that talking doesn't necessarily imply appeasing. Dialogue often leads to a better understanding of each other. Which I think generally is a good thing. And that's essentially what former president Jimmy Carter has been doing, and what Democratic presidential aspirant Barack Obama advocates. In an effort to bring about peace in the Middle East.

I prefer that to the Bush way of settling matters. Such as starting a preemptive war with Iraq. An obscene and senseless war that has lasted longer than World War II. With a horrendous loss of lives on both sides, massive destruction to the infrastrucure and economy in Iraq and a huge debt in the U.S. And it's creating a breeding ground for terrorists.

Seems to me that diplomacy and a unified approach with our allies -- and yes, talks with our enemies -- would have been the better idea. --Jim Broede