Bill,
I say this respectfully. I feel you arguing for the sake of argument. Understand that as much as I enjoy a good argument, my horror and my opposition to what is happening in Iraq is real. There are real people dying and I accept the argument that things may get better (although I disagree), it is clear that right now things are getting worse.
Please give it up with this "thugs in LA" crap.
When there are suicide bombings in LA, deliberate attacks targetting police that kill hundreds, rocket attacks on foreign buildings and significant public support for insurgents (not gangs) you will have a point.
Read what is happening, and understand why many of us are horrified and angry.
CNN news
I apologize, but this debate is getting me more upset than ever as this is sadly much more than a intellectual discussion. I don't think there is any more to say.