Quote Originally Posted by Torog
Gandalf,you bring up an important point-that being that we should never underestimate the cunning of the enemy..we need to be mindful of such and even consider that the iranian leadership,is gitting advice and perhaps material support,from the russians on how to deliver a sucker-punch to the West.

Part of understanding the enemy,is learning what it is,that motivates them and what their final objectives are,a major part of that motivation is something that can't be reasoned with or appeased,that being religious motivators.

Have a good one ...
Well, in reference to your suggestion of Russia taking Iran under its wing, I think anyone who hasn't thought of that has a screw loose. And lets not forget the Chinese. OH LOOK a brand new axis of evil!!! Nice!
So now that we figured out our enemies, understanding them is key, like you said. In my personal opinion we need to understand that the enemy is fighting to be free. Fighting against occupation. And when an enemy has that for a goal, we don't stand a chance.

Just the same as if America were fighting against occupation, the enemy wouldn't stand a chance.
Just my opinion of course, but nationalism is a very dangerous factor in many wars.