[iwar] [fc:Reposting-of-a-summary-of-global-media-regarding-the-attacks-on-New-York-and-DC]

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September 12, 2001

TERROR STRIKES U.S.: 'AN ACT OF WAR,' HOW WILL AMERICANS RESPOND?

Global media gave blanket coverage to terrorist attacks in New York and
Washington.  Initial editorial reaction in the European, Asian, African,
Canadian and Latin American press was elegiac in tone, reflecting
horror, condemnation and shock at "an act of war" perpetrated against
"the most potent symbols" of U.S.  power.  Many suggested that September
11, 2001 will go down in the annals of history as the day that terrorism
emerged as "the primary menace" to global security.  Some, particularly
in the Arab world, saw U.S.  policy as playing a role in triggering the
attacks.  For many, the key question was "how the U.S.  will react," as
editorials cautioned against a precipitant military response by
Washington.  Themes follow: 

EUROPE:  Commentators in major NATO capitals agreed that "the free
world," and not just the U.S., was attacked yesterday.  They called for
"transnational" solidarity and for European Allies to "stand shoulder to
shoulder" with the U.S.  in fighting terrorism.  "We are all Americans"
headlined an Italian paper.  "From Brussels to Moscow, West closes ranks
with U.S.," bannered Paris's centrist La Tribune.  Many likened Bush's
challenge to those faced by FDR after Pearl Harbor and JFK during the
Cuban Missile Crisis.  British, French, Belgian and Spanish dailies
urged caution in America's response, arguing that Washington should
avoid both "hasty" military retaliation and the "temptation" to "retreat
behind Fortress America."  "Those who committed such a terrible crime
must be hunted down and punished--with determination, but also with
calm," asserted a Belgian daily.  "Even in its agony, America must stay
cool," declared London's liberal Guardian, adding that "unilateralism,
even a growing siege mentality, [are] to be avoided at all costs." 

Observers in other NATO and non-NATO countries also expressed their deep
sorrow and dismay, remarking on the unprecedented nature of the
attacks.  No one believed the U.S.  would not--or should not--respond. 
There was some divergence in opinion, however, on "how" Washington
should go about answering the terrorists.  More conservative outlets in
Denmark, Iceland, The Netherlands and Poland were the most strident in
emphasizing that "no cause can justify such a deed" and that the world
must expect and support a decisive and strong hit against terrorism. 
They called on the world--especially European Allies--to "demonstrate
solidarity with the U.S."  Several saw in Tuesday's tragedies a
vindication of Bush's proposal for missile defense.  Other commentators
in Albania, Bulgaria, Finland, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Portugal and
Slovenia--while equally appalled and convinced that there must be a
response--were more intent on urging a cautious U.S.  approach.  They
hoped that America will "seek to identify the roots of the events"--and,
via a "multilateral" approach--respond accordingly.  For these pundits,
the horrors yesterday only proved that MD is a system out of step with
the real dangers facing America. 

MIDEAST:  After expressing horror and sorrow, Israeli editorialists saw
their own country's fight with terrorism writ large in yesterday's
suicide attacks.  Asserting that "the New York and Washington scenes
will now open the eyes of many people," writers contended that
"Tuesday's attack was the price that the democratic nations have paid
because they accepted terrorism as a legitimate means of warfare."  All
hoped that the carnage would spur the free world "to make war, together,
on terrorism."  

Arab writers generally condemned the terror and offered their
condolences to the victims, but at the same time many writers asserted
or implied that America's foreign policy had "made the U.S.  a target
for terrorist organizations that are...growing inside and outside
America."  The Trade Center and Pentagon explosions were repeatedly
compared to and contrasted with attacks upon the Palestinian and Iraqi
peoples.  While one Jordanian writer declared that "no one can accept
that innocent American civilians be the victims of vengeance," another
speculated that the terrorists acted "not out of thirst for blood and
killing innocent people, but because they want to remind the American
people of their own suffering."  Editorials warned against jumping to
conclusions as to the perpetrators' identity and worried that the U.S. 
would experience anti-Arab or anti-Muslim backlash.    

EAST ASIA:   While acknowledging the scale of yesterday's attacks as "no
less than Pearl Harbor," available commentary from China--and Malaysia's
Chinese-language Nanyang Siang Pau--nonetheless saw the events as
"partially attributable" to the Bush administration's "aggressive
foreign policy."  Dailies in Hong Kong S.A.R., Singapore, Taiwan and
Kuala Lumpur's English-language Star, in contrast, denounced the "evil
infamy" and urged the world to cooperate with the U.S.  in combating
terrorism. 

SOUTH ASIA:  Not surprisingly, editorials from major subcontinent
players India and Pakistan differed starkly in their takes on the
events.   Some dailies in Pakistan voiced sympathy with "highly
desperate," "extremely hopeless" people who are driven to such acts. 
Others feared that the U.S., "influenced by the Jewish lobby and
extremist circles," might launch an attack against Afghanistan.  In
India, while the nationalist Hindustan Times saw Osama bin Laden as
"virtually the only suspect," centrist papers were less apt to jump to
conclusions, stating simply that "terrorism must be fought wherever it
occurs" for the sake of the "survival of mankind."

AFRICA:  Papers across Africa condemned the "sheer madness" of the
"ghastly" attacks, and expressed "shared pain" and solidarity with
Americans.  In the face of the "unthinkable" horror, dailies in South
Africa, Kenya, Cameroon, Malawi, Nigeria and Zambia urged the superpower
to exercise restraint in its response.  In South Africa, a centrist
daily cautioned that "the decisions President Bush takes in the next
hours and days can determine whether the world will be plunged into a
war of terrorism or not." 

WEST HEM.:  Writers in Latin America and Canada initially registered
widespread disbelief that the U.S.  as the world's "greatest military
and economic power" was "vulnerable" as never imagined.  Many reasoned
that the incident had proven--in the words of Toronto's leading Globe
and Mail--that "power can never be absolute."  The prevailing sentiment
was that something profoundly inexplicable had happened and most
lamented that "the world would never be the same."  Supporters rallied
behind the U.S., expressed outrage at the terrorists' "contempt" for
life, and braced for an "inevitable" U.S.  retaliation.   Solidarity
with the U.S., however, was not without some reservations.  A writer for
Monterrey's leading El Norte chided, the U.S.  should "learn a lesson in
humility" from the episode, in that "superiority cannot allow arrogance
and unilateral action."  While most agreed that the incident was an act
of war that warranted a decisive response, they nevertheless beseeched
caution, echoing Santiago's paper-of-record El Mercurio's advice: "It is
crucial that the U.S.  control its desire for revenge."  Worried that
the Bush administration would use the "terrorism phantom" to buttress
support for MD, writers in Canada, Argentina and Brazil, regarded such a
strategy as a futile deterrent to any determined act of terrorism. 

Note:  Commentary from some posts was not available due to Embassy
drawdowns. 

EDITORS:  Katherine Starr, Stephen Thibeault, Kathleen Brahney, Diana
McCaffrey, Irene Marr EDITOR'S NOTE:  This survey is based on 109
reports from 50 countries, September 12.  Editorial excerpts from each
country are listed from the most recent date. 

EUROPE

BRITAIN:  "The Consequences Of Terror"

The independent Financial Times editorialized (9/12):  "The American
republic has suffered the most infamous act of aggression since Japanese
warplanes bombed Pearl Harbor....  Theirs is nothing less than an act of
war....  The broader impact of the terrorist attacks on the U.S. 
mainland will be to recast the debate about the nature of security.  A
handful of suicide bombers brought the world's sole superpower to a
standstill in a few hours.   The effect on the national psyche is hard
to exaggerate....  There is no time for point-scoring about the merits
of national missile defense.  Mr.  Bush insists it is the answer to
threats from rogue states.  At the very least, the ease with which this
rogue group penetrated U.S.  defenses should force a rethink.  Mr.  Bush
should also review his policy towards the Middle East....  The
administration's hands-off approach and its tolerance of...Sharon's
hardline has encouraged extremists across the region looking for any
excuse to demonize Americans.  As commander-in-chief, Mr.  Bush should
first pause.  He should establish the facts, acting with allies around
the world.  He should consider the timing and targets of military
action.  He should also recognize that yesterday's outrages were a
calculated effort to force America to withdraw from the world.  This
must not happen.  The United States now needs international support and
the world needs U.S.  engagement.  There must be no retreat behind a
Fortress America."

"Terror For All"

An editorial in the conservative Times judged (9/12):  "The United
States, its allies and the civilized world are at war today against an
enemy which, while undeclared, is as well organized and as ruthless as
any that a modern state has confronted....  The impact on the American
mind, on America's sense of itself and of its duty to others is as yet
incalculable.  The new truths of a changed world have yet to be seen. 
The American dream itself was the target of yesterday's coordinated and
deadly terrorist attacks on the most potent symbols of Western
political, commercial and military power....  George W.  Bush finds
himself trying out John F.  Kennedy's shoes in circumstances that would
test the most mature of politicians.  He has fewer obvious courses of
action open to him than did that other young and still untried president
in 1962, when he was confronted by the Cuban missile crisis.  The
question for Mr.  Bush is how most effectively to retaliate.  The aim
must not merely be to punish but to extinguish the threat.  The
answer...is that there is not single stroke that will slay these
invisible enemies, no one riposte that will 'take out' this threat.... 
Where there is proof against an individual, group or country, America
should take robust military action.  But haste brings dangers not merely
of hitting the wrong target but of making the dangers worse.  It is
important to avoid doing anything that would make life for any more
difficult for moderate Arab governments whose unfeigned horror at what
has happened is dictated as much by anxieties about the impact on their
own publics as it is by common humanity.... 

"Bush's second care is to ensure that this disaster does not turn
Americans in on themselves.  Never has there been less good reason; but
not for a long time will the temptation have been so great.  This
disaster has, in the most appalling and unwanted circumstances of
national catastrophe, vindicated Mr.  Bush's longstanding argument that
the end of the Cold War has not ended the threats to American security. 
It underpins his strategic case for missile defense.  These suicide
bombers have proved his point about America's vulnerability.  They
prove, too, however that missile defense...is only part of a
strategy....  The response cannot be retreat.   This carnage has shown
that there can be no retreat that does not add to danger.  This attack
was, as Tony Blair says, not against America alone but part of a battle
between terrorism and the entire free world which can be met only be
standing shoulder to shoulder."

"The Sum Of  All Our Fears"

The liberal Guardian commented (9/12):  "To those many, still unknown
numbers of Americans who died yesterday, to those who were injured, and
to those who will suffer the consequences of this mass murder for the
rest of their lives, we offer our deep sympathy.  To those who carried
out these cowardly attacks, we offer only our contempt--and the
heartfelt conviction that Britain and the British people...will do all
in their power to assist the American government in finding those who
are responsible.  The United States, its government, and its people did
not deserve this.  For this day of carnage and tears there can be no
justification or excuse.  The moment of collapse will be remembered for
years to come as the moment when international terrorism became, without
question, the primary menace to global security....  Once again, the
lesson was clear.  Suicidal terrorism against civilian targets is all
but unstoppableŠ Two immediate dangers arise.  One is that, wounded,
bewildered, and convinced that the world is its enemy, America will draw
back into itself.  Too often in recent months, the United States has
seemed at odds with its friends and partners on a range of issues, big
and small.  But an even greater unilateralism, even a growing siege
mentality, is to be avoided at all costs.  It would be a victory for the
terrorists.  Likewise, American over-reaction, especially of the
military variety, must be guarded against.  The temptation right now is
to make somebody pay.  And pay...and pay...and pay.  Take a deep breath,
America.  Keep cool.  And keep control."

FRANCE:  "The Pearl Harbor Effect"

Jacques Amalric opined in left-of-center Liberation (9/12):  "Today's
only superpower challenged and its military institution hit.Š  A U.S. 
president forced for security reasons to accept the humiliation of not
being able to return to Washington....  The horrifying magnitude of the
attack is worse than the worst movie scenario.Š  Bin Laden was last
night one of the major suspectsŠ If this is confirmed, we have a true
declaration of war.  A challenge that the United States will undoubtedly
take up.Š  Yesterday's drama will, for certain, give a radical twist to
Bush's already isolationist policy.  We can expect a Pearl Harbor-type
effect.  It can lead to the best or the worst, depending on the modus
operandi chosen by President Bush: blind vengeance, before the end of
the investigation, which will evidently point a finger at incredible
lack of security, or extreme firmness directed at the guilty parties. 
The choice will dictate America's ability to mobilize, or not,
transnational solidarity in the fight against terrorism."

"A New War"

Jean de Belot held in right-of-center Le Figaro (9/12):  "War.  Blind
terrorist war....  Total, sophisticated and planned war.Š In minutes, it
demonstrated the mad determination of its instigators and the
extraordinary fragility of the world's number one technological,
military and industrial superpower.Š This is a new war against the West,
a West that tries to impose its materialistic peace model and against
which the only possible logical retort could be religious, fanatical and
mad.Š The enemy has reminded us it is there, ready to hit anywhere.... 
More proof for those who do not want to see that every Western capital
is threatened.  The lesson is terrible and we don't know whether it
totally validates the U.S.  president's stand.  It would appear that the
anti-missile shield is a valid weapon against fanatic regimes.  But
other more technically simple systems can be implemented, even if they
are politically more complicated to set in motion.  This is true for the
United States, but also for all the nations called 'little Satans,' such
as Europe.Š Washington must of course retaliate.  But how?"

"A Violated Sanctuary"

Philippe Mudry judged in centrist La Tribune (9/12):  "The United States
is no longer a sanctuary.  The proof lies with yesterday's diabolical
demonstration.  Politically, it changes everything.  It is going to
force President Bush to reactŠ What conclusions will he draw regarding
his country's vulnerability? The decisions he will make, the targets he
will choose, the reassessment he will make of his foreign and domestic
policies will upset the military and diplomatic landscape of this new
century.  Everything will change, including on the economic level.Š What
will be the consequences of President Bush's decision on global
markets?  If developed countries want to rally the support they need
across the planet, they will need new radical measures to combat the
radicalization of today's world.  But are they ready?"

ITALY:   "We Are All Americans" 

Managing editor Ferruccio De Bortoli commented on the front page of
centrist, top-circulation Corriere della Sera (9/12):  "We will never be
able to forget the title chosen by the CNN for the most terrifying
tragedy of our era--'America under attack.'  We will limit ourselves to
correcting it.  The civilized world in its entirety was under
attack....  We are all Americans.  Like George W.  Bush, who has been
put by unpredictable fate in a position that is even more difficult than
the one faced by Roosevelt after Pearl Harbor....  The net of U.S. 
internal security was sensationally defeated.  The only superpower left
discovers itself weak and confused in the era of internet and
multimediality created by its own technology.  We are all Americans also
as we look with a broken heart and growing anger at the disgraceful
street demonstrations by Palestinians rejoicing vis-a-vis the images of
the death of innocent civilians.  We are all Americans as we wonder
about the real nature of the world we live in--the spectral and bloody
world of these tragic hours or that of the longest era of prosperity and
peace in history, that today seems to be fading amid the dust, red with
blood, of the Towers of Manhattan."

"The West Struck At Its Heart" 

Managing editor Ezio Mauro commented in left-leaning, influential La
Repubblica (9/12): "An inconceivable political tragedy that, for the
first time, brought an act of war to American soil and fired a permanent
hole in the missile defense shield project designed to protect the new
isolationism of President George W.  Bush.  This is the first act of a
history we don't know, since it sets up an invisible enemy of the West
against the sudden vulnerability of the hegemonic world superpower. 
What we know for sure is that yesterday's events will change the course
of our era....  What happened yesterday is unprecedented in the history
of terrorism and was a real act of war against the United States.... 
This is a war.  Beginning yesterday, we must acknowledge the fact that
terrorism is the new enemy of the West...  This is an anomalous war, so
much so that we don't even know who the enemy is, where he will attack
next, which field he will choose for the battle, which weapons, which
targets.  We only know that democracy is stronger as long as it remains
itself, and that is why we want to defend it."

"Worse Than Pearl Harbor"

Leading defense analyst Stefano Silvestri comments on the front page of
leading business Il Sole-24 Ore (9/12):  "Yesterday's attacks mark the
beginning of the hour of truth for Europe and NATO and, more generally,
for all the countries that have a relationship of alliance or friendship
with the United States.  From all of them, the United States will not
ask just for words of regret or human solidarity, but rather for
concrete acts of collaboration.  It will ask them to pay the cost for
the solidarity and protection that, for years, it has guaranteed against
other enemies and other threats....  The United States yesterday faced,
alone, one of the greatest and most cruel attacks in its history.  It
must not feel or remain alone in dealing with the consequences and
organizing and carrying out a counteroffensive."

BELGIUM:  "A New Form Of War"

Chief editor Pierre Lefevre opined in left-of-center Le Soir (9/12): 
"The world is flabbergasted, horrified and worried.  It is horrified by
the appalling, inhuman, and unjustifiable violence of this attack
against a big democratic nation.  Our emotion is huge, in keeping with
the size of the human catastrophe.  We can only join the vast current of
solidarity and of compassion for the American people which expressed
itself immediately after the attacks.  Isn't it, beyond the United
States, the civilization which we shared with it which is now being
challenged?...  The world is worried because it discovers that the
American giant...has feet of clay.  The most sophisticated antimissile
defense projects seem derisive faced with the determination of a few
terrorists....  Those who committed such a terrible crime must be hunted
down and punished.  With determination, but also with calm....  After
yesterday's events, it is urgent to deeply rethink the question of world
security --to rethink it together, at the level of democratic countries'
alliances, and to rethink it both in political and social terms as well
as military ones.  This attack on civilization deserves a response
worthy of this civilization."

"A War, Unfortunately"

Chief editor Jean-Paul Duchateau editorialized in independent La Libre
Belgique (9/12):  "Tuesday, September 11, 2001, will be remembered as
the day when previous terrorist attacks were mere skirmish and when
terrorism really declared war to the world's biggest country, and when
it knocked it down.  It is a new war -- a world war, perhaps,
unprecedented because of its players and of its modus operandi -- which
has probably begun....  We really hope that we are wrong, but this
Tuesday, September 11, 2001, could mean the end of half a century of a
new-- chaotic but constant -- new coexistence at the world level...  If
it were the case, those who, these last months, warned, without really
being heard, that the conflict in the Middle East could spread out of
the region would be tragically proven right."

"Horror And Disbelief"

Publisher/chief commentator Peter Vandermeersch maintained in
independent Catholic De Standaard (9/12):  "Besides the horror there is
disbelief.  There is the disbelief that the world's mightiest nation
could be hit in its economic, political and military heart.  The most
powerful, best-trained and best-equipped armed forces could not avert
those attacks.  The most expensive intelligence service in history could
not predict the attacks effectively.  The main question now is:  How
will the United States react?  It is more than likely that its response
will be vigorous, large-scale and without mercy.  The world cannot live
under the sword of terrorism.  The perpetrators of these barbaric
attacks must be held accountable rapidly.  The danger here is
that--before the real perpetrators are known--the whole Arab world,
without exception, will be suspected.  The images of dancing
Palestinians in the streets will boost those feelings, particularly in
the United States.  If Washington wants to avoid entanglement in a
senseless spiral of violence, it is in its every interest to keep a cool
head and to react in a selective manner."

SPAIN:  "A Blow Against Our Civilization"

Left-of-center El Pais commented (9/12): "It is a time to call for calm
and to trust the ability of the world's first power and the allied
defense system to deal with this indiscriminate attack....  The
terrorist attack goes against the essence of our political civilization
and proves the enormous contagious effect of conflicts such as that of
Middle East....  The Bush administration must find the guilty parties,
as Mr.  Bush has promised to do, but the United States must resist the
temptation to launch a counterattack unless it is certain about who is
guilty or where the attack came from....  Bush will have to prove his
leadership ability so that American society regains its
self-confidence."

ALBANIA:  "Albanians Stand Next To The U.S."

Centrist, independent Shekulli opined (9/12):  "This is an aggression
against world order, peace and democracy.  It is important to clearly
demonstrate how different countries in the Western world, not always
known for their agreement in the policy arena, now stand in solidarity. 
On one hand, this solidarity should become commonplace, yet in this
instance it should aim at punishing the terrorists, distinguishing
between these and the blind crowds who cheered in the middle of
Jerusalem."

"Black Tuesday Not Only For America"

Top-circulation Koha Jone observed (9/12):  "After World War II, this
Tuesday is the gravest not only for the American people, but also for
the whole humanity.  Yesterday--Black Tuesday--marked the declaration of
war, a frightful act of terror and a threat to worldwide and human
security, which was unprecedented, unsurpassed and unbelievable....  The
Talibans and Bin Ladens have as their goal the proclamation of a
worldwide religious war, but they are not 'entitled' to this privilege,
not only because they are defeated and have failed at their genesis, but
also because they do not have the backup of the Arab nations, and
Muslims, who like Christians, are directed towards peaceful coexistence,
humanism and tolerance."

AUSTRIA:  "Cut To The Bone"

Chief editor Gerfried Sperl commented in liberal Der Standard (9/12): 
"The current series of terrorist attacks on major American cities and on
the United States' national sovereignty is the brutal reality of the
21st century.  And it is a terrible example that reveals the actual
frontlines and the real weaknesses of an alleged superpower."

"War"

Chief editor Andreas Unterberger asserted in centrist Die Presse
(9/12):  "In all probability, the United States is now going to focus on
the Middle East with renewed attention.  And they will not do that with
heightened compassion and understanding, to put it mildly....  If the
world fails to unite in its fight against terrorism now, if Pakistan--to
name but one country--does not put a radical stop to Taliban logistics,
if Europe returns too quickly to profiteering and business as usual, the
stage is already set for the next round of attacks."

BULGARIA:  "America, Smash Them!"

Second-largest circulation 24 Chassa held (9/12):  "No matter who is the
author of the biggest terrorist attack in human history he has to be
severely punished without any delay.  Demolishing the WTC is an act of
the Satan.  The whole world community has to condemn and punish those
who are responsible.  There should be no pardon for the inspirers of the
bloodiest attack in human history.  They are not people."

"Now The Major Question Is What America's Response Will Be"

Center-right Dnevnik commented (9/12): "Yesterday's tragedy showed that
America is truly the country most endangered by terrorism in the world. 
America was not just wounded, it was hit in its heart.  That's why the
major question now is what America's response will be and hopefully it
won't lose its reason after the tragedy."

DENMARK:  "Target U.S.A."

Left-wing Information judged (9/12):  "No missile shield could have
safeguarded Bush against such a massive and inhuman attack....  It seems
almost like a movie, but this was far from make believe--as CNN put it: 
'This was the day that the America's luck ran out.'...  Current U.S. 
foreign policy can in no way justify the attack on Manhattan." 

"Attack On Freedom"

Center-right Jyllands-Posten stated (9/12):  "This was an open attack on
the free world.  The attacks hit at the very heart of the free
world....  We must demonstrate solidarity with the United States.... 
The west must learn to defend itself.  If we do not, we will effectively
be guilty of undermining democracy.  If freedom is not defended, it is
worthless.  It would be fitting if Europe, that has so far expressed
skepticism regarding MD, acknowledges this fact."

ESTONIA:  "A War Against People"

An editorial in the leading Postimees commented (9/12):  "Leaving beside
the human tragedy, we can believe that the catastrophe in the United
States will change the world more than any other international event in
latest decades....  The U.S.  missile defense plan may come under
question--because it leaves hundreds of thousands people in the heart of
the super-nation defenseless against terrorist attacks....  Certainly
the Estonian prospects for getting into NATO are weaker, because U.S. 
foreign policy will be more isolated, and the world will be more nervous
and more unstable.  Because the United States will deal with its own
problems, Russia will get a freer hand in Europe and in Chechnya--Russia
is always talking about fighting international terrorism there, in that
context."

FINLAND:  "War On Terrorism Becoming Global"

Leading Helsingin Sanomat's lead editorial said (9/12):  "The most
terrifying feature of the chain of events is its unprecedented
combination of blind hatred, cool consideration, and organizational and
technical skills.  Probably, these same reasons make it easier to solve
the crimes.  Only a very few organizations could have done this, and the
preparations must have left trace marks.  The United States will
continue to hunt down the perpetrators until it feels it has evened the
score.  But the United States should also seek to identify the roots of
the events.  It should be remembered that no one should be incriminated
on the basis of their religion or nationality, even if they are the same
as those who turn out to have staged one of the worst terrorist acts in
history."

GREECE:  "The Day After"

The lead editorial in independent, influential Kathimerini said (9/12): 
"This time, reality went way beyond Hollywood's imagination.  The WTC
twin towers, symbol of the U.S.  economic strength and capitalism,
collapsed.  Even more impressive was the strike against the U.S. 
Pentagon, the incomparable U.S.  military headquarters.  The number of
victims is expected to rise to unprecedented levels.  The image of the
omnipotent and invulnerable superpower collapsed.  There is no doubt
that the shock will not bend the Americans.  The United States is not
only to launch a crusade against terrorism; it will proceed to strong
retaliation against those who will be considered as instigators.  The
United States will also attempt to restore its reputation through a
crusade against terrorism.  A large number of democratic governments
expressed their will to cooperate more actively in the fight against
terrorism.  The day after is probably bringing a dramatic change in the
global scene as it was until yesterday.  To what direction, we'll see."

"The Only Response To Terrorism"

In its lead editorial, (pro-government, anti-American) Eleftherotypia
said (9/12):  "The unprecedented multiple terrorist attack against the
United States shocked the entire word.   The global condemnation of such
acts comes without hesitation, along with the pain for the thousands of
victims.  The world is in agony after the multiple attack, as there is a
fine line between insanity and arrogance.  The crucial question is how
the U.S.  leadership will react....  The United States leadership must
realize that the best reaction is that of democratization of the world
order, respect for international law, abandonment of arbitrary behavior
or the law of the sheriff.  The answer to terrorism is always more
democracy for all the peoples of the planet."

HUNGARY:  "Apocalypse Now"

Influential, liberal-leaning Magyar Hirlap's editorial stated (9/12): 
"Obviously motivated by the shock of the moment, those views seem to
have been proved that have said from the beginning, that there is only
one possible behavior against terrorism:  to strike at it with full
force.  However, a state of law and order can only judge in a way as
befits law and order.  But just in the defense of the law, it cannot
have any mercy."

ICELAND:  "Far-Reaching Act Of Cruelty"

Conservative Morgunbladid commented (9/12):  "The thoughts of people
from all over the world are with the American people because of the
horrible acts of terror committed yesterday....  No cause can justify
such a deed, no matter how holy its followers believe the act to be.... 
Not only in the United States but also in other open and democratic
societies who are vulnerable to attacks like this.  The threat that
faces democratic nations because of terrorism is closer and more
tangible then ever before....  The events in the United States will have
a profound effect on how Western democracies define and defend their
security....  It is possible that the horrible events yesterday will
lead to louder demands in the United States for the Bush administration
to revaluate their Middle East policies....   The United States is,
because of their economic and military strength, in a key position to
promote peace in the Middle-East and yesterdayÝs horrible events may not
cause them to stop using that position.  It is rather a call for an
increased effort by everybody to establish peace.          

IRELAND:  "Attack On America"

The liberal Irish Times observed (9/12):  "Ireland, like every other
democratic state, feels the direct effects of this tragedy.  The deep
and intimate relations built up  over many years with the US were
eloquently made plain by  the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern and the President, Mrs
McAleese,  in Dublin yesterday.  There will be great international
sympathy and solidarity with the US government as it deals with the
crisis....  To see such potent  symbols of American power attacked so
boldly, openly and effectively is to realize how vulnerable modern
societies are to  such terrorist assaults....   It is an extraordinary
test of President George W.  Bush's leadership qualities....  There are
many questions to be asked about how these attacks could have happened,
but Mr.  Bush will have great  goodwill as he and his colleagues decide
how to respond.   It is critically important that the Administration
adopts a cooperative attitude, drawing fully on this international 
goodwill, rather than rely only on their own immense military resources. 
That will mean working with allies and with the United Nations in
pursuit of those responsible for yesterday's tragic deaths and in
elaborating multilateral plans to tackle it on a global basis.  Such a
choice would affirm the United States' leadership role by retrieving
some of the goodwill eroded in the administration's recent unilateralist
approaches  to environment and security issues.  This is a highly
sensitive issue, which will need careful handling by its friends and
allies."

THE NETHERLANDS:  "Nightmare"

Conservative De Telegraaf  has this editorial (9/12):  "A cowardly
terrorist attack at totally innocent people that asks for tough revenge
and that will be avenged....  No country can accept that the symbol of
its power, the Pentagon, and the symbols of its prosperity, the World
Trade Center, be attacked so mercilessly and without a warning by
unscrupulous people.  America became a different country after such a
harsh attack.  Once an open country that took in immigrants and refugees
from all over, that stood by the world in wars against barbarians, the
United States now threatens to turn inwards.  That is another reason why
the world has the duty to show the United States and the Americans that
they have many friends who are standing by them during these dreadful
times."

"The New Enemy"

Influential, liberal De Volkskrant opined (9/12):  "The European
governments showed little understanding for American brainstorming about
new enemies.  They did not participate in that brainstorming and only as
a formality supported the U.S.  preoccupation with potential global
risks.  But after the attacks on the World Trade Center and the
Pentagon, Europeans have also stopped laughing....  A U.S.  response
seems not only inevitable but also justified."

POLAND:   "America Will Defend Democracy"

Rafal Ziemkiewicz commented in centrist Rzeczpospolita (9/12): "I
believe in America.  It is certain to defend its democracy and remain
the paragon of a free country to the world, even though it may be at the
cost of some restrictions to its democracy."

"This War is Against All of Us"

Pawel Fafara opined in right-of-center Zycie (9/12):  "This is not an
attack on the United States.  The attacks on the World Trade Center
towers, the Pentagon, and other American icons are, in fact, an attack
on the whole civilized world--its standards, habits, and ethical code."

"Priceless Values"

Wojciech Pielecki wrote in leftist Trybuna (9/12): "It is very important
that the civilized world is showing so much solidarity with America
which has been hit so painfully.  This solidarity may yield an efficient
defense of the most cherished value--life in peace.  And this is
priceless."

PORTUGAL:  "Crime Against Humanity"

A back-page editorial in top-circulation, Porto-based, center-left
Jornal de Notfcia held (9/12):  "There is no effort we can make that
will allow us to understand what happened yesterday in the United
States.  Suicide attacks, or a pact among extremist nations, have
perpetrated a true crime against humanity....  It wasn't even America
that was attacked, but all of Western civilization that, having the
United States as its leading edge--and so often, unfortunately, as world
cop--found itself hit at a fulcral point:  security, in the end, doesn't
exist.  Without question, the future of humanity hangs upon the response
to this act....  The reactions of American society and, in part, the
voices of its European allies, will be responsible for defining the kind
of response the United States adopts.  Today, the civilized world is
still stupefied by what happened.  And awaits what it will be told the
New World will be.  Upon politicians with global responsibilities falls
the obligation--ethical and civilizational--to review the fragile
content of economic and social policies that fill up the trenches of
misery, create extremist desperation, violence, hatred, and appeals for
vengeance from those who feel marginalized by inadequate policies."

"Invisible Enemies"

Deputy editor-in-chief Nuno Pacheco editorialized in influential,
center-left Público (9/12):  "This proves that the United States, if it
wants to survive in this new world of wars waged on the battlefields of
the purest terror, not only must better understand the real weight of
the conflicts with which it is dealing (the Middle East in particular),
but also agree to cooperation with the other democracies in order to
restore a minimum of human dignity in a world where barbarism threatens
to rule....  The truth is that...the world will never be the same.  And
none of us will have any reason in the future to be proud of that."

SLOVENIA:  "A Day Unlike Any Other"

Left-of-center Delo held in a front page editorial (9/12):  "There has
not been a day in the history  of the United States like today....  The
Americans know that they are a prestigious target for all those who
dream about retaliation and revenge in their cellars and bunkers
throughout the world.  It is prestigious also because it is such a
well-protected country, so secure and far away from the origin of
attacks.  Until today, official America was afraid of rockets.  The Bush
administration risked domestic disputes and a crisis in its relations
with the allies in order to [introduce the Missile Defense system] which
would protect the country from phantom flying weapons which would come
from distant countries.  As it is, innocent civilian aircraft flying on
domestic flights were transformed into weapons.  The Americans will have
to think again about what danger is and how to defend themselves."

SWEDEN:  "Solidarity With America"

Conservative Svenska Dagbladet editorialized (9/12):  "The America
haters around the world gloated on Tuesday.  Now all apprehensions of
terrorist attacks, which have been ridiculed in the public debate as
unrealistic fantasies, particularly from Leftist quarters, now have come
true.  But this reality now has come.  On Tuesday, September 11, 2001,
world history took a leap into an uncertain void....  Those of us who
are not American haters now shall give our thoughts to the Americans who
have suffered a heavy loss....  The attack on them is an attack also on
us.  The outrage is aimed against open societies worldwide, and seldom
ever since WWII, the word solidarity is so proper and so suitable to use
as it is today....  For a short while the terrorists can rejoice over
the damage that they have caused to the world, but soon enough they will
find that it is much more difficult to kill the ideas of freedom that
constitute the American society."

"An Attack Against The Free World"

Liberal tabloid Expressen editorialized (9/12):  "Disregarding who will
in the end be found guilty, the democracies of the world should regard
this outrage aimed also against them.  The attack did not only hit the
USA, but also some of the symbols of the free world; world trade and the
U.S.  defense forces.  Today we are all Americans, not only in the role
as shocked TV viewers, but also as democrats."

MIDDLE EAST

ISRAEL:  "Terror Without Borders"

Independent Ha'aretz commented (9/12): "The terrible terrorist attack
that was unleashed on the U.S.  Tuesday was not directed against the
U.S.  Administration, nor against its policies in this or that part of
the world.  It was an attack planned by people who want to destroy a
whole system of values, in effect all that the civilization of 'the
West' represents--liberty, democracy, economic power, and military
capability....  The price America has paid and pays for its
determination [to fight terrorism] is done in the name of all
freedom-loving countries, including Israel, which are not ready to bow
their heads before extremists who enlist God to justify their murderous
activities....  The citizens of the U.S., in any case, are not alone on
this terrible day.   Those who believe in its values stand by their side
to strengthen America in this uncompromising war against terrorism."

"The New Nazis"

Chief economic editor Sever Plotker wrote in mass-circulation, pluralist
Yediot Aharonot (9/12):  "For almost one year, Israel has withstood a
cruel terrorist offensive on its own.  Israel's sometimes excessive
responses have been greatly criticized in the world and have been met by
a good deal of misunderstanding and a lack of empathy.  The New York and
Washington scenes will now open the eyes of many people....  The U.S.,
Britain, France and other Western countries will now do their moral
stocktaking as to what they did or did not do to eliminate terrorism and
to contain it....  We, the Israelis, will tell them sorrowfully and with
a feeling of a shared fate: 'We told you so.  We told you that the
answer to terrorism is not conciliating with it, resigning oneself to
it, nor attempting to understand it--but uniting fronts in the
relentless fight to eliminate it.  There can be no peace with
terrorism."

"America's Yom Kippur"

Senior columnist Yoel Marcus wrote in a page one commentary in Ha'aretz
(9/12):  "This day will be remembered as America's Yom Kippur, its Black
September....  It seemed last night that the source of the attack was
Islamic fundamentalism that has turned suicide into an infectious
disease.  After yesterday, every last American will understand the
meaning of Israel's ongoing battle against terrorism, against
suicide-bombers, and against those who send them out on their missions
of mayhem.  Tuesday's attack was the price that the democratic nations
have paid because they accepted terrorism as a legitimate means of
warfare.  Perhaps it will spur them now to make war, together, on
terrorism.  Tuesday it was a passenger plane.  Tomorrow it might be a
nuclear bomb."

"This Far And No Further"

Senior columnist Nahum Barnea wrote in Yediot Aharonot (9/12):
"Irrespective of the question of who is responsible for these terrorist
attacks, their horrific results oblige the West to begin an all-out war
against terrorism, including a war against any country or political
entity aiding terrorism.  That is the message Israel will bring to the
world.  It appears that this time the world will listen."

"The New Evil Empire"

Conservative, independent Jerusalem Post editorialized (9/12):  "As we
look with horror at the devastating attacks on the U.S., the hearts of
all Israelis are with the American people.  Even we Israelis, who have
been battling a wave of terrorism for almost a year, have trouble
fathoming what has befallen tens of thousands of innocent people in
America.  We are sickened, once again, by scenes of Palestinians dancing
in the streets, this time celebrating the deaths of Americans.  We
[Israelis] have trouble fathoming the hatred directed at us, so we can
only imagine the bafflement and pain of Americans attempting to
contemplate the baseless hatred directed at them....  There is a new
'evil empire'--the empire of terror....   The U.S.  should demand that
the [UN] Security Council use the strongest measures in its
arsenal--mandatory 'Chapter 7' sanctions--against any nation that
supports international terrorism....  Terrorism is a global scourge that
must be fought globally.  Until now, the democracies have fiddled with
and indulged the states where terrorism has been cultivated and grown. 
America's goal should be, one way or another, to defeat or remove the
regimes that have declared war against her.  If the democracies do not
unite to defend themselves, our world will become as tragically
unrecognizable as the New York skyline."

"A New World"

Editor Gonen Ginat wrote in a page one article in nationalist Hatzofe
(9/12):  "This morning we are waking up to a new world, different from
the one we knew.  A world at war.  Many things will no longer be as they
were....  On Tuesday, the free world suffered the worst blow it ever
received, but it could also be a new beginning.  The determination that
has not been seen thus far in the war against fundamentalist terrorism
will now be activated.  Simply because there is no other choice.  What
happened yesterday is unlike any terrorism we have been through. 
Tuesday's death toll of the terror attacks will probably rise higher
than the number of all the fallen soldiers in all of Israel's wars since
the establishment of the state.  It is true we are a smaller nation, but
this immense scale is significant.  It is different.  And despite this,
terrorism unites us all.  On Tuesday, all of us, the free world, became
the family of terrorism.  And as of this morning the entire western
world, all of us, have to be  a fighting family."

WEST BANK:  Media Treatment

Palestinian dailies dedicated their frontpages and many of the inside
pages on the attacks with wire stories, analyses and pictures of the
destruction.  The Palestinian press highlighted Chairman Arafat's
condemnation of the attacks and quoted him as saying that "what happened
in American was a crime against humanity." The dailies also spotlighted
the Palestinian leadership statement condemning the "criminal incident."
Also highlighted on the front pages was the condemnation and denying of
any involvement by the Palestinian factions.  The papers published
excerpts of the factions' statements of condemnation, including those
issued by Hamas, Islamic Jihad, PFLP, DFLP, and Fateh.  

"Self-Restraint"

Independent, moderate Al-Quds editorialized (9/12):  "What happened in
the cities of New York and Washington yesterday is considered a disaster
by all measures.  There are major losses in lives and property, which
will no doubt have negative impact on the U.S.  economy.  But away from
all of the emotional implications, these human losses, as well as all
the other losses, add to the anguish even more because America is a
blend of many nationalities.  Millions of Arabs, Muslims, and
Palestinians live in the U.S.  They work hard to earn their living and
to live a peaceful life.  Such violent incidents touch them in the core
because of the preconceptions, prejudgments and unjustified accusations
against them with or without any proof of involvement.  There is no
doubt that there are some parties who want to exploit the regretful
bombings to cause more splits between U.S.  citizens and the
Palestinian, Arab and Islamic communities there.... 

"Even with the major differences in positions and viewpoints between the
U.S.  the Arab and Islamic world, especially in relation to the
Palestinian cause, matters should never reach to the point of targeting
civilians to such a blind violence....  At a time when the entire world
is condemning these attacks, the U.S.  government and the American
people are expected, especially at this time of crisis, to show maximum
self-restraint and patience and to avoid all preconceptions and
prejudgments and wait to see the outcome of the investigations."

JORDAN:  "Condolences To The American People"

Mohammad Subeihi wrote in independent, mass-appeal Al-Arab Al-Yawm
(9/12):  "Whatever injustice was suffered by people at the hands of the
U.S.  foreign policy and whoever was responsible for the attacks against
the American institutions, no one can accept that innocent American
civilians be the victims of vengeance.  As we, Arabs and Muslims, had
raised our voices against Israeli terrorism directed at the Palestinian
people, we also denounce the fact that the American people be the
victims of terrorism.  We also realize that the American people, now
fallen to grief, will find the chance to review its administrations'
policy that has made the U.S.  a target for terrorist organizations that
are increasingly growing inside and outside America."

"The Malicious Instigation Against Arabs And Muslims"

Center-left, influential Al-Dustour (9/12) editorialized:  "We are
shocked at the horrific events witnessed in a number of American
states.  However, we realize that some parties are already pointing the
finger at Arabs and Muslims, with no evidence whatsoever, holding them
responsible for the attacks for which no one declared responsibility
yet....    We strongly denounce the attacks against civilians and
innocent people.  We offer our condolences to the families of the
victims.  We also warn against any attempt to take advantage of this
tragic situation to put the blame on the Arabs and the Muslims."

"The Horrific Incident And The Zionist Media"

Columnist George Haddad declared in center-left, influential Al-Dustour
(9/12):  "The horror of this disaster does not justify in any way
whatsoever the fact that Zionist-controlled media have already started
to point fingers of accusations.  In every crime situation, there are
targets and motives and in this case, everything is possible....   This
does not mean that the Arabs and Muslims are above suspicion.  There
might have been among them those who would have desired to be the
perpetrators of these attacks, not out of thirst for blood and killing
innocent people, but because they want to remind the American people of
their own suffering at the hands of the Zionist politicians."

SYRIA:  Media Treatment

Syrian government-owned Al-Ba'th and Al-Thawra, the only newspapers to
appear (9/12) reported in full detail the terrorist attacks against the
World Trade Center and the Pentagon in Washington, and carried pictures
of all explosions.  Al-Ba'th described yesterday as "a black Tuesday in
the U.S." and described the explosions as "unprecedented in modern
history."  Both newspapers carried a statement by an authoritative
Syrian media source that condemned the assaults and expressed Syria's
sympathy with the American people and families of the victims.... 
Syrian newspapers also reported statements of condemnation and
condolences issued by Arab and foreign heads of states. 

Selected headlines (9/12): government-owned Al-Ba'th - "Syria denounces
the destructive assaults and expresses sympathy with the American
people";   "World states condemn the assaults and extend condolences to
the American people and the families of the victims" government-owned
Al-Thawra - "A black Tuesday in the U.S.   Civilian planes demolish
vital centers in New York and Washington.  Huge losses are reported.  A
high state of alert is declared.  America is isolated from the world"

BAHRAIN:  "No Justifying Killing Thousands Of Innocent People"

A front-page editorial in semi-official Al-Ayam stated (9/12):  "No
reason can justify such horrifying actions and the killing of thousands
of innocent people.  No goal can justify the hell and destruction which
America faced yesterday....  However, the shock should not lead to
distributing accusations here and there.  There are many suspected
organizations and we must not forget what radical rightists in the
United States did in Oklahoma....  While we condemn this mad violence,
we remind everyone of the importance of reaching an international
understanding to combat terrorism so that peace prevail in all parts of
the world."

"A Greater Tragedy Than The American Attacks On Iraq"

Ali Saleh declared in semi-independent Akhbar Al-Khalij (9/12):  "No
matter how deeply involved in local issues we are, we, the journalists,
cannot neglect the horrible incident that happened in America....  What
happened yesterday was a tragedy that is greater than the tragedies
resulting from the continuous raids by American fighters against
Iraq...the attacks on Libya...the F-16s bombarding Palestinian houses
and American-made Apache helicopters hunting Palestinian leaders.  It is
a horrible tragedy for which I have to express my sadness and sorrow and
give my warmest condolences to President Bush and the American people
hoping that they learn something from what happened."

"America Eats The Bread She Baked"

Hafedh Al-Shaikh argued in semi-independent Akhbar Al-Khalij (9/12): 
"The U.S.  now is eating a little piece from the bread which she baked
and fed to the world for many decades, thinking that God has given her
the History [immunity] forever and that this situation will never change
until the [day of resurrection.]"

LEBANON:  "Regrettable"

Faisal Salman observed in Arab nationalist As-Safir (9/12):  "The nature
of these attacks cannot hide the feelings of animosity that led to this
disaster....  This kind of hostility...reflects the level of hatred and
despair towards the U.S.  The identity of those responsible will not be
known quickly because the enemies of the U.S.  form a long list.... 
Regrettably, Americans will quickly classify those responsible as
follows: Arabs, Radicals, Muslims, then others....  The real problem is:
what if those responsible for these attacks are really Arab Muslim
radicals?"

"Has World War III Begun?"

Aouni Al-Kaaki editorialized in pro-Syria Ash-Sharq (9/12):  "America
could have expected this tragedy if it had only realized that there is
no area in the world that had not suffered as a result of its policies
and lethal weapons....  America tasted suffering yesterday...after it
had forced many nations to enter hell....  The mere fact that Muslims
and Arabs are being accused of the attacks means that there is someone
who would benefit from accusing Arabs and Muslims....  Who has the
capability to reach the Pentagon, the Congress, and the State
Department?  Why weren't the American defense systems activated around
the Pentagon?  Is it possible that the CIA had no idea about those
plans?  What about the local mafia in the U.S.?"

"Tragedy Might Make For Opportunity"

The English language Daily Star editorialized (9/12):  "It can be
difficult for Arabs to see past U.S.  policy and appreciate America's
qualities.  But on Tuesday they were the centerpiece of a sad but proud
display.  Apart from measures taken to ensure the security of the
country's senior leadership, the tragedy was handled with admirable
openness and surprisingly little venom.  If the pundits were right and
Osama bin Laden or someone like him is responsible, that person should
not be allowed to hijack U.S.  policy vis-a-vis the Middle East.  On the
contrary, it should prompt a renewed American resolve to understand the
region and to help redress the inequities that prevail here....  In the
long run, this could actually help America and all parties in the Middle
East by causing them to see that they in fact have a common interest in
achieving a fair and comprehensive peace that portends a better life for
Arabs and Israelis alike....  America has been made to know the
suffering that so many other countries understand all too well."

SAUDI ARABIA:  "It Is Terrorism"

Abha-based moderate Al-Watan stated (9/12):  "Terrorism knows no time,
no place, no title, no direction.  It strikes everywhere, and it is
always innocent people who pay the price....  Terrorism must be
condemned, whatever its source and whatever its goal.  Terrorism is
terrorism whether it is with bombs, explosives, planes, cars, cannons,
or missiles.  Terrorism from the religious and human point of view
clashes with all principles and thoughts, which control our world,
whether those who are behind it are organizations, individuals, or
states....  The global community must stand together to stop all kinds
of terrorism and must secure innocent civilians and nations from its
danger.  This demands preserving justice for everybody.  This is the
only way we can fight terrorism."

"A Heinous Crime"

Pro-government, English language Saudi Gazette noted (9/12):  "The
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, as well as all Arab and Muslim
countries, including the Palestinian Authority, have strongly condemned
the terrorist attacks on vital centers inside the U.S.--branding such
attacks as contrary to all religious values and civilized human
norms....  The 'mastermind' behind this cowardly murderous devastation
and sad loss of innocent human life has yet to be identified....  There
is fear that some people will quickly jump to conclusions....  The main
thing is not to hysterically single out any ethnic group without waiting
for official word as to the identity of the perpetrators....  Tuesday's
attacks on major American landmarks should awaken the world to join
hands and fight all terrorists who thrive on their hatred of their
fellow human beings....  Finally, we extend our sincere condolences to
the families of all of the victims of these barbaric attacks."

"Terror In U.S."

The largest, English-language Arab News editorialized (9/12):  "It is
too early to say who is to blame for these crimes against
humanity...although many have linked them to Osama bin Laden....  But it
is difficult to believe that bigger forces were not involved.  This
seems too well organized to be purely the action of a group, no matter
how well funded....  Once the finger of blame is pointed in whatever
direction by the U.S., the consequences are going to be even more
dreadful than the attacks.  The assaults were war against the U.S.  and
war will be the result....  Everyone knows that the Arab world is locked
in a struggle with Washington over its support of Israel and its
arrogant attitude toward Arabs and Muslims....  So it would be easy and
tempting, at a public level, to jump to the conclusion that there is a
Middle East connection....  But with all of that, if there is a Middle
East connection, one can only hang one's head in despair.  Whatever the
resentments, this has to have been an insane--and ultimately doomed--way
to combat Washington."

TUNISIA:  "The U.S.  In Shock"

Editor-in-chief, Chokri Baccouche wrote in independent French-language
Le Quotidien  (9/12):  "This tragedy shows clearly that the U.S.  itself
is not protected from such attacks that could happen any time in any
place.  Despite its military power and its anti-missile program, America
stays vulnerable whenever the danger comes from the inside.  It is no
doubt that these acts of terrorism should be condemned, whatever the aim
and objectives of terrorism are, it is always considered as a strongly
condemnable act.  At the same time, we should admit that the U.S.,
through its double standard policy, which is illustrated for example in
Iraq and Palestine, tended to make enemies all over the world including
some Western countries.  The U.S.  has in someway contributed in
gathering hate and injustice...among the oppressed people.  One should
expect such a result.  Hence, the U.S.  is called to revise its policy
and its relationship with the rest of the countries...because using
force has never guaranteed security."

"With No Rancor"

Co-editor-in-chief Fatma Karray commented in independent Ash-Shourouq 
(9/12):  "With no rancor.  Our history, civilization and tragedies could
only make us look with sadness on the tragedy that happened yesterday in
America....  We've seen the terror in the American civilian innocent
eyes, while witnessing death and destruction around them....  What we've
seen in Washington and in New York reminded us, Arabs, of what happened
in the night of 16 and the 17 of January 1991 in Baghdad....  It also
reminded as of the Palestinian tragedy....  It is with no rancor, only
God knows our sympathy to yesterday's victims....  The call for blood
donation reminds us of the one happening in Baghdad since 1991, which is
continuing till now without deliverance....  Whoever stands behind this
tragedy, it is considered a hard lesson for America.   We say that all
houses are made of  glass...and no one is protected."

EAST ASIA AND PACIFIC

CHINA:  "A Tragedy No Less Than The Pearl Harbor Incident"

[Note: the strikes against the NY World Trade Center and Pentagon took
place late in the evening, Beijing time,  therefore many newspapers had
no time to write commentaries on the subject.  More comment is expected
tomorrow.]  Hu Shuli stated in the Financial Daily (Caijing Shibao,
9/12): "'The World Trade Center event, a tragedy no less than the Pearl
Harbor incident, will inevitably shake the world pattern, and will have
a far-reaching influence on the American political, diplomatic and
security strategies,' said Zhao Quansheng, an expert on Sino-U.S. 
relations at the American University in Washington, D.C....  'The
tragedy is a challenge to America's leadership in the world. 
Politically, the U.S.  leadership in the Middle East peace process is
now doubtful.  Militarily, the tragedy has proven that the MD system is
full of loopholes.'...  Zhao added that in the future global fight
against terrorism, the United States and Western countries will
definitely need China's cooperation."

"U.S.  Pays Price For Its Double-Standard"

The Financial Daily (Caijing Shibao) also carried this item (9/12): 
"The New York World Trade Center event shows that 'the United States is
paying the price for its double-standard in handling global affairs,'
said Jin Canrong, director of the economic research center of the
American Studies Institute under the Chinese Academy of Social
Sciences....  The U.S.  government should review its foreign policy. 
Since he came to power, President Bush's aggressive moves have further
aggravated the already tense relationship with other countries.  The
World Trade Center tragedy can be partially attributed to his aggressive
foreign policy....  The tragedy also highlights the irony of the MD
system, indicating that the MD system can in no way guarantee the safety
of the American people.  Experts say the negative effect of this tragedy
has far exceeded that of the Pearl Harbor incident, and will create a
huge psychological impact on the Americans."

CHINA/HONG KONG S.A.R.:  "Dark Dawn"

An editorial in the independent South China Morning Post stressed
(9/12):  "The devastating attacks against the United States have left
the world in a state of number disbelief.  The vulnerability of the
world's mightiest superpower to attacks from shadowy groups has made us
conscious of how vulnerable we all are to this form of attack.  We ask
ourselves, will the world ever be the same again?...  It is starkly
clear that the greatest threat facing world peace is...the threat of
disaffected groups venting their anger against established regimes.... 
These [types of] raids prove that missile defense systems are
irrelevant....  Above all, the terror raids also prove that no city
anywhere is exempt from attack by angry groups with murderous intent. 
There no longer are dafe havens."  

TAIWAN:  Media Treatment

The series of deadly terrorist attacks in New York and Washington have
drawn considerable media coverage in Taiwan (9/12).  Almost all
newspapers covered the tragic news on their front page.  A China Times
editorial comments on the "significance" revealed by these attacks,
saying they are a shocking wake-up call for the bigger powers in the
world.   A Liberty Times article notes that the United States, after
these incidents, will definitely review and adjust its national security
strategies, which will, in a way, indirectly affect its military
deployment overseas and its Asia-Pacific policy in the future. 
Editorials of other major newspapers in Taipei, including the United
Daily News, Economic Daily News and Taiwan Daily, all condemned
terrorism and violence.  An English-language Taiwan News editorial also
urged the United Nations to cooperate closely with the United States in
taking necessary actions in order to find and punish those terrorists. 

"A Historical Incident That Changes Post-Cold War Strategic Climate"

Centrist/pro-status quo China Times commented in its editorial (9/12): 
"In order to maintain the so-called 'new international order' and
accomplish the 'Pax Americana', the United States never hesitated to
sacrifice the justice of those deprived races in attempt to attain the
grand, imperial style of peace....  Yesterday's major attacks served as
a new footnote for the history of the thousands years of feud between
Christian and Islamic civilization.  For the United States, the bombings
at the World Trade Center...the Pentagon...are of great symbolic
significance.  They are also the biggest humiliation that the United
States has ever faced...a move equivalent to a declaration of war. 
Washington will definitely take fierce revenge [for the attacks].  The
question is, where to find those people for revenge.  One cannot use
weapons of mass destruction to kill those innocent people.... 
International relations are no longer focused on the relations between
sovereign countries.  There are many minor entities, marginal races and
individual organizations in the international community that have been
ignored or oppressed for a long time.  These groups have been living in
an unjust environment for a long time and have now found a simple and
effective vengeful means, which is also of great psychological effect. 
Should the big powers in the world take these incidents as a warning
sign?"

"No Leniency For Terrorists"

The pro-independence, English-language Taiwan News' editorial intoned
(9/12):  "We condemn those terrorists involved in such attacks.  They
can never justify whatever goal they wish to attain.  We ask the UN to
closely cooperate with the United States in taking necessary actions in
order to find and punish those terrorists and whoever may be responsible
for those attacks, according to the law.  We would also like to call on
leaders of the world, especially U.S.  President Bush, to heighten their
vigilance against further terrorist activities.  Our war against
terrorism has just started."

MALAYSIA:  "Terror Over American Cities"

The government-influenced, English language Star ran this commentary
(9/12):  "Terrorism knows no civilized bounds:  It can strike anywhere
at any time, wreaking a terrible toll in human lives and destruction. 
And because this universal scourge also knows no national frontiers, its
reach is global....  Attacks on these two cities are not just symbolic
but also substantive, on the body politic as much as on the psyche of
the world's sole superpower.  The United States itself has been most
active and vocal against terrorist groups, even as its own foreign
policies attract the widest controversies.  If indeed the tragedies in
New York and Washington were part of an elaborate terrorist plan, they
[will] not be the first of such attacks on U.S.  nationals and
property....  The perpetrators of what increasingly look like
premeditated mass murders are bloody-minded psychopaths.  No cause can
justify such evil infamy.  Rather than win international sympathy, the
yet-to-be-identified terrorists and their struggle will earn only the
just opprobrium of the world."

"America Must Control Itself"

Government-influenced, Chinese-language Nanyang Siang Pau stressed
(9/12):  "The attacks should be a lesson to the Americans who have been
wallowing in the glory of being the only superpower in the world. 
Terrorist organizations have made numerous attacks on U.S.  targets
before, but the Tuesday ones have shaken the whole nation.  The
terrorists have also proven they are capable of anything by choosing the
Pentagon and the WTC, both sensitive institutions.  The United States is
certain to retaliate but an overreaction will cause more turmoil and
confrontation.  Because of this, the United States should stay calm in
weighing its options."

SINGAPORE:  "Atrocious Acts"

Pro-government Lianhe Zaobao featured this editorial (9/12):  "We were
greatly saddened by the horror scenes which appeared on television. 
These are the most unbelievable, most inhuman acts ever committed during
peacetime.   While the real motive behind what happened has yet to be
known, signs are pointing to an unknown terrorist group trying to deal a
lethal blow to the United States.  Such cruel acts should be universally
condemned and not be tolerated by civilized societies....  The world
must stand firm and join hands in taking stern action against such
terrorists."

SOUTH ASIA

INDIA:  "Target: Humanity"

A front-page story in the centrist Times of India declared (9/12):  "The
biggest and most concerted terrorist attack in history...could be
described as an assault...on the very concept of civilization
itself....  It would be only too easy...to blame terrorist groups
inspired by so called 'Islamic fundamentalism.'...  It would not be
entirely in the realm of thriller fiction...if these attacks did not
have clandestine drug connections, besides the obvious political and
terrorist angles....  Even as it recovers from the massive body blow it
has received, the U.S.  political and defense establishments must work
in closer concert with their counterparts elsewhere....  What has been
grievously wounded today is not just one nation, but the very heart of
humanity itself."

"The Usual Suspect: Osama Bin Laden"

Associate editor Pramit Pal Chaudhuri stated in the nationalist
Hindustan Times (9/12):  "This was the world's most fearsome terrorist
attack.  No surprise that the world's most feared terrorist virtually
the only suspect.  Almost every finger of blame and needle of suspicion
is pointed towards Osama bin Laden....  First is resources and
planning....  Second is symbolism....  Third, there is almost no one
else [capable of doing this.]...  Fourth, bin Laden had said he would do
this....  Several plots against the United States have been uncovered in
the past year or two.  It was a matter of time, perhaps, before one
succeeded."

"Afraid In America"

The centrist Indian Express editorialized (9/12):  "Terrorism has to be
fought where ever it exists.  There is no room for complacency for what
is at stake is the very survival of mankind and all that it considers
precious and sacred."

PAKISTAN:  "Do Keep Your Eyes On Facts From U.S.  History"

Sohail Danish wrote in popular Din (9/12):  "Very soon we will know who
the cowards behind this frightening terrorism were.  But whatever has
happened, has shaken the entire world.  The complete system of the
United States--the inventor of the latest technology--has failed.  The
comprehensive U.S.  intelligence system has also failed.  Whosoever was
behind the incidents was armed with the latest technology and carried
out this heinous crime successfully.  The perpetrators of this crime are
enemies of humanity."

"Using Death As A Weapon"

An op-ed by Hamid Mir in popular, Islamabad-based Ausaf (9/12):  "On the
night of September 11, one of his (Osama bin Laden) representatives
contacted me....  He had brought a written statement in which Osama bin
Laden said that he was not involved in the blasts in New York and
Washington, however, he fully supported these blasts....  I told Osama's
envoy that, it is correct that the U.S.  government supports tyrants,
but what about those innocent people who were killed in New York and
Washington?  In response he asked me a question: who is responsible for
the deaths of the innocent people in Palestine, Chechnya and Kashmir? 
In any case, the danger of a U.S.  attack against Afghanistan and an
Israeli attack against Palestine is imminent.  CNN and BBC
correspondents are rushing toward Islamabad.  This indicates that
preparations are underway to launch an attack against Afghanistan.... 
There is still time for the United States, instead of using the language
of might and power, to begin a process of dialogue."

"U.S.  Attack On Afghanistan Likely To Double Pressure On Pakistan"

Saleh Zafir stated in mass-circulation Jang (9/12):  "Commentators
believe that if Afghanistan comes under U.S.  attack, Pakistan would be
doubly under pressure....  U.S.  Central Command vessels are present 100
kilometers off the Makran Coast.  The presence of U.S.  troops at places
bordering Afghanistan has been confirmed."

"Influenced By Jewish Lobby, Bush Can Order Attack On Afghanistan,
Palestine"

Ashraf Azeem asserted in sensationalist Khabrain (9/12):  "The
destruction caused by four jetliners in New York and Washington has
shaken the entire world....  It is worth mentioning here that President
Bush could have diverted the U.S.  anger (against these acts of
terrorism) toward Afghanistan.  Yet, he kept his calm despite his
immense sorrow at the tragedy and only said that 'we will respond to
this attack and hunt down the perpetrators.' However, there is a
possibility that, influenced by the Jewish lobby and extremist circles,
President Bush might launch a sudden strike against Afghanistan and
Palestine.  Such a situation would prove devastating for world peace."

"Minor Doomsday In America"

Peshawar-based Sahaar editorialized (9/12):  "No one claimed
responsibility for the attacks so far, but there are two strong
possibilities: a reaction to the Jewish brutalities in Palestine and a
result of internal social problems in the United States, although the
strong suspicion is that this could be an act of revenge by the
oppressed Palestinian youth.  Obviously no civilized human being can
justify such terrorism, but when someone is forced, he will fight. 
Looking at what has happened must convince the rulers in Washington that
they need to review their foreign policy and replace the use of force
with understanding and mutual respect."

"Repercussions For Muslim World"

Imtiaz Alam commented in the centrist, national News (9/12):  "In at
least one attempt, the terrorists have shown how vulnerable even the
United States is to retaliation by highly desperate and the extremely
hopeless and the most frustrated among discriminated and radicalized
sections in the Muslim world.  What the alleged revenge seekers among
the most detested militant elements ignored is the fact that, if they
are really involved, they have in fact provoked the mightiest superpower
in human history to go berserk.  Expert after expert in the U.S.  media
left no ambiguity in implicating 'Islamic terrorists', especially Osama
bin Laden, and the need for 'integrated action' against the perpetrators
and backers of terrorism."

AFRICA

SOUTH AFRICA:  "The Day That Shook The World"

The liberal, independent Cape Times concluded (9/12):  "New words will
have to be found to capture the full meaning of this unprecedented,
unbridled, coordinated, brutal, targeted terror...  The truth is that
the intentional targeting of civilians on this scale catapults the world
into unknown political territory.  The events unfolding in North America
are, at this stage inexplicable and profoundly unpredictable....  We
have to resist speculation and blame-apportion.  We have to stand
together as one community for a moment, and not succumb to hysteria. 
There will be more than enough time to try to understand.  Today we are
called upon, simply, not to do any harm to our fellow citizens."

"Democracy Can Suffer Much More Than This"

The business oriented, independent Business Day held (9/12):  "There is
little doubt that yesterday marks a watershed in U.S.  history and, by
proxy, in the history of the modern world....  We can be sure that the
scale of the disaster is unthinkable, and that the sea change in
American life that is about to follow will match that of the Vietnam
era...  The U.S.  president may be tempted to take succor in ordering a
military response.  That would be understandable but we trust that Bush,
and his advisers will take a much colder view.  Retaliation leads to
escalation, and escalation leads to disaster."

"Sheer Bloody Madness"

The conservative Citizen underscored (9/12):  "Madness, sheer bloody
madness.  That's the only way to describe the outrageous wave of terror
which engulfed the United States yesterday.  There is no political or
religious cause on earth which can justify the mass murder and
destruction wreaked upon the American people....  We have no doubt the
attacks are directly linked to the US support for Israel, which must
include the walkout by both delegations in Durban.  Unable to impose
their zealot views in civilized forums, they resort to barbarism....  In
doing so the terrorist have change the world forever....  Everywhere,
restrictions will be tighter and life will be more tense.  What happened
yesterday, and its repercussions, will overshadow all our lives for a
long time."

"U.S.  Needs To Keep A Cool Head"

The centrist Pretoria News emphasized (9/12):  "We shudder to think what
will follow or how the United States--growing increasingly unpopular in
recent times--will react.  We hope they do not do anything reckless just
to satisfy the desire of outraged citizens to avenge the tragic loss of
life and limb.  The world simply cannot afford an escalation of
hostilities that could reach a global scale.  The cost to humanity could
be too ghastly to contemplate."

"Unthinkable"

Afrikaans-language, centrist Beeld judged (9/12):  "The unthinkable has
happened.  The illusion that mankind was moving steadily towards a
greater world peace driven by the rationality of an all-embracing
international trade and globalization, is in tatters....  Whoever is
behind the attack was obviously organized.  Mankind is today holding its
breath to see what the backlash will be to the gruesome act.  Twenty
years ago such an attack would undoubtedly have resulted in a Third
World War....  The decisions [President Bush] takes in the next hours
and days can determine whether the world will be plunged into a
terrorism war or not."

CAMEROON:  "Who Must Have Done This?"

Editorialist Richard Nyamboli opined in the Yaounde-based, bilingual,
government-run Cameroon Tribune (9/12):  "The United States of America,
by virtue of its unique position in contemporary history as the world's
remaining superpower and global policeman, by choice or by default, is
prone to have people and communities within and without who loathe and
oppose some of the ideas for which that country stands just as
passionately as some others cherish and can even die defending them.... 
There seems to be a global terrorist conspiracy against the United
States of America and all it stands for.  The magnitude, the viciousness
and the professionalism with which the latest bombings were carried out
lead to just such a conclusion.  Violence of this magnitude is
unjustified and should be condemned absolutely.  Speculation is
rife....  What happened in New York and Washington is evil at its most
banal because it involved indiscriminate killing of innocent citizens. 
It is an affront on the human conscience; a crime beyond pardon.  But as
America counts its casualties and searches for the perpetrators of these
devilish acts, it should also reflect on the finality of its global
power and economic might."

"America Hit At The Heart"

Columnist Patrice Etoundi Mballa observed in the Yaounde-based,
government-run, bilingual Cameroon Tribune (9/12):  "These (attacks)
mark the beginning of an era of hyper-terrorism, with its horrors and
its apocalypse-like destructions."

KENYA:  "This Terrorism Demands New Counter-Offensive"

According to an editorial in the centrist Daily Nation (9/12):  "There
can be no justification whatsoever for visiting naked terrorism on
innocent people.  Few nations will understand America's grief as deeply
as the Kenyan nation, which has yet to fully recover from the 1998
terrorist bomb attack on the U.S.  Embassy.  Though a superpower, it
should dawn on the United States that, no matter how awesome your
military array and the million-eyed optics that protect it, this is no
longer a security guarantee.  What those terrorists achieved yesterday
shows that the global policeman must begin to police the world more with
brain than, as heretofore, with brawn."

"Kenya Flights Are Stopped"

Commentary in the centrist East African Standard noted (9/12):  "Kenyans
with raw memories of a 1998 U.S.  Embassy blast gave mixed reactions to
attacks on U.S.  targets, offering sympathy but also urging Americans to
understand why U.S.  Middle East policy makes them targets."

MALAWI:  "Terror Attack A Blow To The Free World"

The daily Nation contended (9/12):  "A shocked world learned yesterday
that suspected terrorists struck at the heart of the American
establishment....  It may have been a symbolic body blow to American
capitalism and military might, but no one in the free world can feel
entirely safe now.  This was a horrifying attack on democracy and its
champions....  It is quite possible, in fact quite tempting, for the
Americans to strike back in retaliation.  However, that may not be the
best course of action for in the retaliatory strike, many innocent
people--just like those who have perished in the U.S.  attacks--may lose
their lives....  While we share the pain and shock of the American
people, we believe they have the need to be absolutely certain they have
the right culprit before they begin to mete out any punishment.  We are
sure the rest of the world will come to America's assistance in the hunt
for the perpetrators of yesterday's attacks."

NIGERIA:  "The Lord Is My Shepherd"

The Ibadan-based, independent Nigerian Tribune carried this note
(9/12):   "World's most powerful nation, the United States, and indeed
the whole world were dazed with terrorist attacks on the Pentagon and
the World Trade Center.  Those who regard the United States as their
protector should now realize the need to go for the Biblical quote: 
'The Lord is my Shepherd.'"

ZAMBIA:  "Horrendous Crime Against Humanity"

The government-owned Zambia Daily Mail observed (9/12):  "Civilized
humanity may never coin a single set of words that could sum up the
condemnation of the horrendous crime against humanity committed by
terrorists that have bombed the United States....  The bombings, of
grotesque proportions, are a representation of the depravity of the
minds behind this heinous act.  We join the rest of the peace loving
international community in condemning the attacks in the most strongest
terms imaginable.  There are no reasons--whatever the case--that can
justify this scale of violence, even against the enemy....  No one,
including  the attackers, should underestimate the United States ability
to hit back with devastating force.  Their stockpiled weaponry of mass
destruction at their disposal is a source of worry.  This is why we ask
the United States authorities to exercise restraint in responding to
this tragedy.  The country is in the middle of a catastrophe of
unimaginable proportions and so, extreme caution must be taken if the
George Bush Jr.  administration is to work out [a] rational
response....  The international community should join the Americans in
condemning this abominable violence and in sparing no effort to bring
the heartless killers to justice."

ZIMBABWE:  Media Coverage, "U.S.  Attacked, Thousands Feared Dead"

The terror attacks in the United States received blanket coverage in
both the print and electronic media.  The state-funded national
broadcasting television station, ZTV 1, suspended normal programming
yesterday  afternoon when cable news network started airing footage of
the breaking news.  All four state-funded radio stations followed suit
by broadcasting, at intervals, either British Broadcasting Corporation
(BBC) or Voice of America (VOA) reports about the attacks.  The attacks
dominated the ZTV's main news bulletin at 2000 hours.  Wire service
reports about the attacks dominated all September 12 editions of the
independent Daily News and two government-controlled dailies, The Herald
and the Chronicle.   The Zimbabwe media have not yet offered editorial
comment on the attacks. 

WESTERN HEMISPHERE

CANADA:  "Let Loose The War On Global Terrorism"

An editorial in the leading Globe and Mail asserted (9/12):  "This much
we can say, as inadequate as it is.  Our hearts and thoughts and prayers
are with the victims, for their families, and for the United States.  We
mourn also for a world profoundly changed.  Because changed we surely
are, in ways that will be seen both immediately and gradually.  Such an
unpredictable attack alters all understanding of safety and national
security.  It will shake the confidence of many Americans who believed
they lived in the greatest, strongest and most powerful nation on
Earth.  Power, as it turns out, can never be absolute.  Even the best
military weapons are useless against a determined act of terrorism,
because no sort of missile defense shield or nuclear arsenal can be
employed against the simple, suicidal, act of flying an airplane into a
crowded building....  These attacks build their particular terror from
the fact that they come when least expected, as ordinary people do
ordinary tasks on the most ordinary of days.  As such, terrorism of this
sort is difficult to prevent at the moment of action, which could be any
moment, any place....  Thus, the world community must unite as never
before to make any support for terrorism an act that ensures complete
international isolation.  No longer can nations carry on normal
relationships with other nations while harboring terrorists.  Isolation
should extend through every political, diplomatic, cultural, sporting or
economic field....  But despite the pressure, we believe it would be
overly hasty and even risky to drop random bombs on suspect nations. 
The United States should not be drawn into a cycle of attack that will
either target civilians or imperil them by proximity.  This would be as
indefensible as the original act....  The world's response must be to
grow adamant that terrorism cannot triumph.  It is every nation's duty
to strike back by joining an anti-terrorism campaign beyond anything
previously mounted.  All countries must join, and all must condemn those
who do not.  With yesterday's act of horror, terrorists have cemented
their demise."

ARGENTINA:  "After The Horror"

An editorial in daily-of-record La Nacion read (9/12):  "In fact, it
seems inevitable that the United States will carry out retaliatory
actions as serious as the atrocious action of violence they experienced. 
On the other hand, and unfortunately, it does not seem sensible either
to suppose that this terrorism, with its overwhelming levels of
organization and efficacy--and also of fanatic decision --will abstain
from repeating its criminal actions....  Undoubtedly, an intelligent
repressive action executed with full energy would identify and
suppress--in an exemplary manner--the authors of this atrocious
massacre, but nobody can assure that the sources feeding this monstrous
fundamentalism will be definitely destroyed."

"A Day Of Infamy"

An editorial in liberal, English-language Buenos Aires Herald asserted
(9/12): "If anybody doubted that the United States is the first victim
as well as the man beneficiary of globalization, those doubts should
have been brutally removed yesterday.  Terrorism is a global threat
which must be globally resisted -- Pearl Harbor was followed by
conventional warfare, but how do we react to this? It is not a question
of the U.S.  guessing whether Afghanistan or Iraq or Libya or whoever is
the most likely culprit and sending out Air Force jets in that direction
-- the priority must be response, not revenge.  And nor is it a question
of 'star wars' anti-missile systems dotting the world with satellite
bases when the enemy can so easily strike from within--all our notions
of security and theories of conflict can never be the same again after
yesterday.  Yesterday's horror was a declaration of war against
everybody from nobody and all countries in the world must join forces
without rest until the forces of darkness have been driven out into the
light."

BRAZIL:  "Action Questions Republican Doctrine"

International commentator Jaime Spitzkovsky said in liberal Folha de Sao
Paulo (9/12):  "The attacks showed the only superpower's vulnerability,
and represented a low blow against the Bush Administration's national
security strategy.  The 21st century terrorists used commercial planes
without the glamour of intercontinental missiles feared by the White
House.  Bush will not give up the system to intercept and destroy enemy
missiles in the air.  Supported by yesterday's tragedy, he will use the
terrorism phantom as one of the major threats against the U.S. 
hegemony.  But the White House will have to give up its 'theological
obsession' of using the anti-missile shield as the central point of its
defense policy, and agree with a more flexible approach to include
resources aimed at improving, for example, the U.S. 
counter-intelligence service."

"The U.S.  Will Retaliate With Or Without The World"

Liberal Folha de Sao Paulo columnist Elio Gaspari commented (9/12):  "On
September 11, 2001, a date that will remain in the history of infamy,
someone changed the U.S.  history.  One can only speculate about some
factors that will determine the face with which America will emerge from
the New York dust.  The first is simple.  Any hypocritical demonstration
of anti-Americanism will correspond to an opposite violent and resented
reaction.  Sympathy towards terrorists' charm will have a price.  The
U.S.  will search for the terrorists who have attacked it with or
without the world.  The same world that took back the U.S.  seat at the
UN Human Rights Committee, to allow Sudan to occupy it...  The United
States will no longer be as it was before yesterday morning."

 "A Global State Of War"

Journalist Gaudencio Torquato wrote in center-right O Estado de Sao
Paulo's op-ed page (9/12): "We are now living in a state of global war. 
War is everywhere, crossing borders, killing, hurting nations' pride.  A
huge structure commanded by an invisible power of urban guerrillas is
winning the battles of diplomacy and peace.  The bipolar world of the
Cold War has given way to ethnic-cultural tension not only in the Middle
East but across the globe.  There is a holy war carried out by sabotage
and suicide operations in the name of a sacred cause.  Some world
leaders lack the quality of past great leaders: greatness.  The radical
posture of President Bush has not helped facilitate paths to peace. 
What can happen now, after these attacks on the U.S.?  Retaliation will
mean more bloodshed, but the American people will demand a strong
response, which could aggravate world conflicts.  This is one of the
gravest moments of contemporary geopolitics.  Neither the world, nor the
United States, will ever be the same."

"War Zone"

Columnist Janio de Freitas commented in liberal Folha de Sao Paulo
(9/12): "What hurt America's power and pride is much more than
terrorism.  It's a new form of war, something that military might does
not practice and does not know how to defend.  One of the targets was
the Pentagon, military terror of the world, fortress of the greatest
military power, suddenly attacked with precision.  In an operation so
meticulously planned and well executed, the choice of targets was not
random.  The White House could have been hit too.  Why wasn't it?  Could
it have been a warning, or some sort of provocation of America's
political power, by showing the military's ineffectiveness?  Whether the
attack came from domestic or foreign sources, it created unknowable
elements on the international scene which will exert strong pressure on
U.S.  and European public opinion."

MEXICO: "Uncertain Future"

A front page editorial in nationalist El Universal asserted (9/12): "The
most serious and catastrophic terrorist action was carried out against
the United States.  However, it is also directed against world peace and
its consequences could not be measured.  We reject these terrible
attempts in New York and in Washington as if they had taken place in our
own territory....  We also recognize the legitimate U.S.  concern to
prevent any such insane attacks in the future, but at the same time we
also hope that the U.S.  decisions would be dictated by reason, and
intelligence....  The best service that the United States could do for
the whole world is the preservation of peace....  We are certain that
the United States  will be able to overcome this situation.  We hope
that the United States will not fall to xenophobic hatred and that it
would not hold an adverse feeling against immigrants from all over the
world-millions of Mexicans among them-who have contributed to American
greatness."

"Day Of Rage"

A commentary in leading El Norte by Gabriela de la Paz, professor at
Monterrey Tech (ITESM) held (9/12):   "The United States should learn a
lesson in humility that shows that even the most powerful country is
vulnerable to terrorism.  Superiority can not allow arrogance and
unilateral action, since there is no small enemy.  This event underlines
the serious need for study of terrorism and the need to develop more
national security resources that will prevent this type of crisis with
faster and more efficient action."

"Human Proportion"

Felipe Diaz de la Garza used the massive flooding in Nuevo Leon which
occured the night before the attack as a comparison in a leading El
Norte commentary (9/12): "It is dangerous to forget our condition and
consider ourselves God, God's messenger, or God's protTgT.  It is more
certain to remember that we can drown in a glass of water, such as the
rain that fell last night in Monterrey.  It is safer to remember that
we're fragile, that our condition and lives are fragile, as fragile as a
small family, like mine or yours, threatened by the storm or by the
highest buildings in the world completely destroyed by dehumanized human
beings, whom we have not been able to identify yet.  Let's not lose our
sense of proportion.  Our measure is a local river that floods and will
drown us.  Let's cry for New Yorkers, but not forget that they were
killed by a person who did not know how to deal with 12 hours of rain
and who forgot his condition."

CHILE: "Terror Attack"

An editorial in daily-of-record El Mercurio stressed (9/12):  "The
greatest military and economic power of our era has revealed itself to
be much more vulnerable than ever even suspected.  The simultaneous
hijacking of at least four commercial aircraft, despite all the security
measures implemented during the past three decades, defies description. 
The terrorist attack is being compared to Pearl Harbor...but clearly it
signifies a totally different phenomenon.  Whereas the former took place
in the middle of a world war, with this event  there is no war going on
the explain  an act of such dimensions....  The reaction [of the U.S. 
government] must demonstrate the country's greatness and its respect for
the liberties and right of due process for its citizens and the rest of
the world.  It is crucial that the U.S.  control its desire for
revenge....  We all assume that the immediate response of the U.S.  and
of all those nations that have been victims of terrorism will be to take
measures to prevent something like this from happening again.   
Unfortunately, this will lead to the restriction of civil liberties... 
It wouldn't be the first time that frightened societies demand their
leader to limit their own liberties, but this is severely damaging for
Western societies which have accomplished an outstanding democratic
modus vivendi.   This is why all those nations that share a civil
behavior must immediately establish a cooperation mechanism to exchange
information as a way to efficiently  fight indiscriminate terrorism."

"Attack On The Heart Of The Empire"

Pablo Soto González and Daniela González Diez commented in
daily-of-record El Mercurio (9/12):  "Not in dreams nor in movies nor in
the wildest imagination.  Until now, no one would ever have suspected
that what the United States experienced yesterday could ever have
happened.  This attack on the heart of the empire has shakened the
American people, used to seeing only from afar terrorist attacks that
are so common in places like Spain or the Middle East....  What happened
yesterday attacked the most important and sacred this that U.S. 
authorities can offer its people: its internal security, a pride that
today is beginning to crumble, and whose reconstruction represents a
monumental challenge....  No one can understand how a country that
spends billions on security could be so vulnerable."

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC:  "A New Pearl Harbor"

Conservative El Caribe held (9/12): "This is a war, and a tough one for
the enemy is not easily identifiable and at times, not even traceable,
and commercial private planes, full of fuel and innocent passengers, are
turned into mortal bombs.  Nothing justifies that thousands of
Dominicans suffer days of anguish and uncertainty and that several
fellow countrymen have died, .  .  .  by the simple fact of arriving
early to their jobs in New York.  No to Terrorism!"

"Economic Terrorism"

Conservative El Caribe's editorial stressed (9/12): "We hope that this
political crisis and human tragedy are quickly solved and that the
inevitable acts of retaliation do not accentuate them."

GUATEMALA: "Terrorism"

Highest-circulation Nuestro Diario lead editorial said (9/12): 
"Terrorism is lamentable in any of its manifestations, for which reason
we hope that this case, unprecedented in American history, will result
in punishment for those responsible.  Certainly President Bush and the
Americans can count on the solidarity of most of the peoples of the
world."

"What Will Change Before the Magnitude of Yesterday's Terrorism?"

Conservative, business-oriented Siglo Veintiuno asserted in its lead
editorial (9/12): "The terrorist aggressions of yesterday were of
monstrous dimensions.  All the elements and circumstances surrounding
them were particularly cruel: the total contempt for the lives of the
people on board the airplanes...and the employees of the airlines,
totally on the margins of ideological or political questions; the
determination to mow down thousands of people who were also remote from
the 'cause' of the terrorists; the willingness to lose their own lives
and to wound, damage, and kill so many defenseless and innocent human
beings.  To all this must be added the grotesque dimension of the
material damages that were caused.  As various people in public life in
the United States have said, neither its leaders nor its people, nor
those of the other nations of the western world, are willing to renounce
their style and system of living, which would bring with it necessarily
a response, a reaction of different dimensions from those that have been
known in the past...for every action there is a reaction, and what we
will be seeing will probably be certain changes in the rules of the game
that make it possible to prevent and repress, beyond traditional notions
of national sovereignty, acts of barbarism of the dimensions of those
committed yesterday, which were certainly not just another act of blind
and execrable terrorism."

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO:  "Ignorance Is The Handmaiden Of Terrorism"

The Trinidad Express, the Trinidad Newsday and the Trinidad Guardian
newspapers all carried editorials on the recent terrorist attacks in the
United States (9/12): "Ignorance is the handmaiden of terrorism.  That
is why, in Palestine yesterday, some groups celebrated by handing out
sweets in the aftermath of the suicide attacks on the World Trade
Center, the Pentagon and other locations in the United States of
America....  So what have these attackers accomplished?  Yes, they have
proven that America the mighty is not invulnerable to terrorist action
in their own cities.  But this is something both military experts and
lay commentators have warned about for years....  What the attackers
have mainly accomplished is really very simple: they have murdered
thousands of innocent people.  Of course, in the terrorist mind, nobody
is innocent.  Terrorists even argue that the children they kill are not
innocent, because the children would have grown up to become enemies. 
Clearly, such persons are beyond rational argument.  Concomitantly, the
leaders responsible do not really care about the long-term consequences
of their acts.  While they remain safe in hiding, it is ordinary people
around the world, but particularly in the Middle East, who will suffer
the fallout from yesterday's events."


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