August 25, 2005
What do those calling for a pullout from Iraq think will happen if we do?
Do they seriously believe America will be safer?
If they do, they are fools.
In a speech to the Veterans of Foreign Wars on Monday, President Bush said "a policy of retreat and isolation will not bring us safety. The only way to defend our citizens where we live is to go after the terrorists where they live."
He added, "part of their strategy is to shake our will."
Indeed it is.
Do we owe nothing to the eight million Iraqis who voted for the first time ever?
Sure, it's hard writing a constitution, especially in Iraq.
It was hard for us.
It took between 1776 and 1789 to write and ratify our constitution, which was accompanied by ten amendments as you may recall.
Our only option in this world war is not retreat.
It is victory.
Every pronouncement that counsels retreat emboldens the enemy, as it has in Gaza where Israel has uprooted its Jewish residents.
The Palestinian side is claiming victory for its so-called martyrs and for violent Jihad.
This will be the conclusion of the Jihadists if we cut and run and we will pay the price in more blood.
In Northern Ireland, I'm Cal Thomas.
Cal Thomas is a nationally syndicated columnist based in Washington, D.C. Watch his television show, After Hours with Cal Thomas, on the Fox News Channel, Saturdays at 11 p.m. Eastern Time.
