Thursday June 26, 2008

I've Been Thinking:

In the world of diplomacy, there are certain statements and observations best left behind closed doors.
In the world of defense strategy, certain comments may appear to be cold, ruthless and heartless.
In the world of international intrigue, some things should just be kept secret, far away from a probing media and curious public.

That explains why certain briefings are secret and certain decisions are made behind closed doors.
Moshe Yaalon, Israel's former Military Chief of Staff, recently observed said that the price to pay by the nation of Israel to save the life of one single soldier might just be too high. He concluded that the State of Israel should not pay.

On a military level, where a calculus of cost using human lives is used, his remarks may have been appropriate.
On a political level, such discussions cannot and should not ever be made public.

Parents lend their children to the army for the profound and essential task of defending their country against enemies.
Parents ask that the government and the leaders take good care of their children and return them home.
If the ultimate sacrifice is made, let it at least be for a purpose - not a mistake.
If the ultimate sacrifice is made, make certain that the body is returned so that the family has a place to mourn.

Military Chief of Staff Yaalon was way out of line by saying what he was thinking.
He has undermined the morale and spirit of Israeli parents and their children.

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