Lies, Damned Lies, and Bushspeak

Labels and slogans won't stop terror attacks, neither will misdirected investigations that deliberately ignore the diffuse nature of terrorism. Of course, Bushco wants you to think of 9/11 every time they say the word "terror," in spite of the fact that 9/11 happened on their watch (why is it that this obvious fact eludes so many on the Right?). Worse, the fiasco in Iraq has fueled anti-Americanism not only in the Islamic world but also in countries that have traditionally been friendly to US interests. The Mayberry Machiavellis need to go--NOW.

Terrorism Experts Cast Doubt on Qaeda Tie to London Arrests

WASHINGTON, Aug. 12 — When American and Pakistani officials said this week that one conspirator in the foiled plan to bomb trans-Atlantic airliners was a “liaison” to Al Qaeda, they suggested that his arrest proved the group was linked to the scheme. Rashid Rauf, a Briton, had trained in the group’s camps in the 1990’s and was “a key Al Qaeda operative,” one Pakistani official said.

But counterterrorism experts said Saturday that the focus of government officials and the public on Al Qaeda, a term today with deep connotations but elusive meaning, may be misplaced.

They say the Qaeda label remains useful shorthand for the news media and for officials who want to tap the powerful emotions associated with the Sept. 11 attacks. But to suggest that the terrorist threat today is represented by the organization directly commanded by Osama bin Laden is to oversimplify a complex international movement, the specialists say.

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