Melo, I certainly agree with everything you have said.  The US is not at all guiltless in the current state of affairs and in the run up to 9/11.  It is very likely true that those drawn to Al Qaeda feel powerless in the face of the international march towards globalization and thus felt compelled to take whatever drastic actions they have taken right or wrong. I actually feel sorry for them in the sense that we all have been victims of "progress" or injustices, some greater than others. Nevertheless, as with the man who robs banks because he really needs the money, illegal acts can't be condoned and one would be rather foolish to ignore a loaded gun aimed at one's head.

I think the real tragedy is that neither Americans nor members of Al Qaeda understand each other very well.  For their part the typical American does not have a good understanding of what the US Govt. has done, in their name, to provoke so much hatred abroad, particularly in the Middle East and the Islamic world in general.  Americans do not understand the consequence of the lack of even handedness by the US Govt in dealing with Israel over the Palestinian issue nor do they understand clearly the consequence of their government's support for despotic regimes in the name of business and trade.

I can swear there ain't no heaven but I pray there ain't no hell. _ Blood Sweat & Tears