[Editorial] Imminent U.S. Retaliation against Terrorist Attacks

As the U.S. prepares to launch a full-scale retaliation against the terrorist attacks, tension around the global community is building up. Considering the current sentiment within the U.S., a large-scale military retaliation against the terrorist power behind the scene seems unavoidable. People are concerned about the impact which will be brought about by the large-scale military retaliation following the heinous terrorist attacks in the U.S.

Considering that the terrorist attacks were the worst human crime of anti-civilization and anti-humanity, it is for the future of the global community to eliminate the root of terrorism by any means. Terrorists are affirmed as the common enemy of human race. Each nation should willingly support the U.S. retaliation against the terrorists not only for one`s own nation but also for the security of the earth.

In light of this incident, it is highly possible that terrorists may use more brutal means in the future. They may resolutely use not only weapons for the mass destruction, such as nuclear and bio-chemical weapon, but also weapon of civilization. A large-scale military retaliation may be required to prevent such a terror. It is necessary to listen carefully to the experts who argue that instead of wars among nations, wars against small organizations or groups, which engage in terrorist attacks, should be considered seriously in the future.

Meanwhile, we should actively consider establishing an international surveillance system on terror and taking the countermeasures. To establish an international anti-terror organization and to strengthen the diplomatic cooperation among nations would be effective preventive measures against terror. Countries which hide or protect the terrorist due to the national and religious interests should be subject to the international sanction.

However, punishment or retaliation against the terrorist attacks in the U.S. should be limited to the terrorist group. Terrorists intentionally use civilians as `shields` to avoid the attacks against them. If this incident is to be developed to a situation like war, innocent civilians will suffer greatly. Then, not only the justification for the retaliation against terror weakens but also it provides them an excuse to justify their activities.

It may be an unavoidable choice for the U.S. to retaliate the terrorists since the terrorist attacks brought the worst damage to the U.S. in history. However, the U.S. should think deeply how it can minimize the damage on the innocent people. If it becomes a war situation, it may bring about tragic result.