An abominable act

While we feel this act, purportedly by al-Qaida associates, should be roundly condemned by all humanity and our heart goes out in sympathy for the victim's family, it should not be mixed-up with the Iraqi prisoners' abuse issue. The culpability of those that are responsible for the prison abuses, both in the planning and execution of these acts must be accounted for and punished.

More outrageous pictures of prison abuse, since the ones in the CBS was broadcast, are coming to light. Our comments on this matter several days ago, particularly with regard to the quality of leadership and command and control of US forces in Iraq, have been borne out by the statements made by General Taguba to the congressional committee on defense. It appears to us that Abu Gharib is not an isolated incident but follows a pattern of similar acts, conceived and instigated from above. The disconcerting aspect of the matter is that the prison officials were encouraged by their superiors for doing a 'good job'. There are reports now of similar abuses in Afghanistan.

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It is good to note the US government has taken the matter seriously. One hopes that appropriate actions would ensue, and that both the perpetrators as well as those that planned and ordered such despicable methods, would be brought to book.