One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

B, GAD, NEW YORK CITY NEW YORK — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 16:54:02 GMT

Mr,Martin Fletcher I want to thank you for this article from the bottom of my heart. Most ARABS don't want any terrible we just want to be seen as equal. When one of us dies we blood as well!!! Just being fair in the review of the events is all we want!! Arabs are MEN and will side up for there own rights. But the report has to be equal on both sides.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

brog, va beach, va — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 16:57:45 GMT

Live by the sword...die by the sword.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Gary, Stillwater, Ok — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 16:58:10 GMT

It is good that you called it a tragedy, because that is exactly what it is. There is no good and evil side in this conflict.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Damon Seattle, WA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:00:27 GMT

You should never get to know your enemy too well. He may become your friend. The terrible thing about war is that it is always fought by people - living, thinking, human beings. Do you remember the helpless rage you felt as an American on 9/11 when the towers fell and our way of life changed forever? Imagine growing up and living your whole life with that anger all around you and inside you. Now imagine having a clear and available target on which to vent that rage. What would you do? Would anything be too much? When you pare away the differences of religion, language, and philosophy, we are all alike, all of us on the planet, in how we love, how we dream, how we hate. Understanding both sides means you take on the heaviest burden of all - empathy. God forgive us.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Brian — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:00:31 GMT

Why is it that peace, love and life are so fragile, while fighting is perenial, hatred is adamantine, and death so permanent?
This is the sort of thoughtful and thought provoking piece that should be required reading for political leaders and foreign service employees...their jobs may be difficult, but this makes the purpose clear.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Keith — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:01:14 GMT

Bombers are cowardly murderers. Good to hear he was a nice guy, despite being a mentally ill murderous coward.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Jen B., Boston, Massachusetts — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:02:35 GMT

Thank you, Martin, for writing something sane, compassionate, and without finger pointing. Folks are always looking for the black and white answers, yet your piece makes it so eloquently clear that not only are there 2 sides to every story, there are a dozen sides to every story. I hope that journalists will cover these issues more in this vein.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

john, toronto — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:03:59 GMT

We cannot be told what to believe. we must find our own truths by ourselves, by seeking knowledge. not many stories come out of this region with sympathy for the palestinians. there are just as many of them as the jews / zionists but these palestinians have no voice. they don't even have the opportunity to tell their side of the story, which any logical man will agree is just as important as the side of the sotry we know. people don't kill without reason. lets look at the cause rather that the result and we will surely find that the fault lies squarely with the foreign zionists who have no business in palestine.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Robert Vargo, Johnstown, PA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:07:26 GMT

Censorship? Martin you would be screaming bloody murder if I SAID "THIS ARTICLE HAS NO PLACE BEING PUBLISHED" Well liberal, lets see if this is allowed on YOUR SITE"

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Spiral Triangle — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:07:57 GMT

a terrorist is a terrorist is a terrorist.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

K Russell — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:09:48 GMT

Its a true shame that mankind has not learned to live & let live. Mankind only show us how pitiful we all are with our agressive ways of resolving our disputes.
After 2000 years mankind should realize that there are other ways to resolve problems without killing each other.
Its not that hard to hold out your hand, & its not that hard for another man to shake it.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Jason Bradcell — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:10:16 GMT

Freedom fighters do not indiscriminately rocket, blow of public transportation, restaurants. While no mother, Israeli or Palestinian, wants to see their loved ones die, at least a real soldier is holding a weapon and can defend themselves. Real soldiers do not hide behind children or other non-combatants. Real fighters try HARD not to just snipe at a farmer in a field. No...Ahmad was a TERRORIST!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Tim Louisville, KY — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:11:03 GMT

Thank you for sharing this story with us.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Sick of AIPAC in the USA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:13:52 GMT

The Israelis are the terrorists, Mr. Fletcher.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Joel Dubow — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:15:24 GMT

It is a dangerous fallacy to state that one man's terrorist is another man's freedom fighter. It is a repudiation of the rule of law. If we restated it as "one man's murderer (or rapist)is another man's hero (or role model) then it may become a little clearer. It is the Orwellian, 1984 fallacy of polluting the language and making things impossible to decide. Terror is a word that has a definition and a meaning. If you support terrorists then, in order to communicate effectively, it is better to say that you support this form of terror. Otherwise we end up with a lot of grunting and killing and no one listening to anyone else, sort of what we have now.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Marion — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:16:52 GMT

Yes, we all are sorry for young life lost in a senseless war, but Ahmet and either with him got what they deserved, what they asked for. They killed civilians in Israel, suicide morons, what would you do, if you would be an Israeli? Give them flowers?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Higgins CT — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:19:11 GMT

All any Soldier ever wants, is to make a difference. To either keep the peace, or to expand the rights of those they fight for. Justification of the actions taken, is weighed against the proposed outcome. Some folks just put more stock in certain things.
Freedom, often comes at the cost of the young, but it shouldn't have to.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Stan, OKC, OK — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:20:21 GMT

I wonder how many Israeli families mourned over graves filled by Ahmed and his group? I have no sympathy for a young killer like this.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Bruce G., San Francisco — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:21:37 GMT

What you call "Israeli logic" is: logic. The Gazans would have been free long ago if not for people like Ahmed. When the Israelis left Gaza voluntarily a couple of years ago, it was with the hope that Gaza could become a seed of a stable Palestinian entity. And what happened? The rockets have never, ever stopped coming, and one of the first acts of the liberated Gazans was to pillage the state-of-the-art greenhouses the Israelis had left behind, intact, in the hope that these could provide income, jobs, respect, stability. Ahmed deserved to die, as much as any cold-blooded murderer does -- all murderers have their grievances.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Boccca — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:22:48 GMT

OUR FOUNDERS ALSO WERE CALLED TERRORIST AND
BRUTAL REBELS BY THE ROYALIST OF ENGLAND ...
THEY WERE HUNTED ASSASINATED AND PUNISHED
FOR DARING TO CHANGE THEIR LONG OPPRESSION....

THE EX-PERSECUTED JEWS SIONIST FROM EAST EUROPE
HAD BECAME THE INVADERS AND RULERS OF PALESTINE...

THE NEW DAILY HOLOCOUST IN THE LAND OF JESUS
SHOULD BE STOP BEFORE MORE FREEDOM FIGHTER LOSS
THEIR PRECIOUS AND YOUNG LIVES...

THE MURDER OF THE GOLGOTA 2008 YEARS AGO IN THE
HAND OF POWERFUL AND CORRUPT JEWS OF THAT TIME
IS BEEN REPEATING ITSELF IN THOUNSAND OF LIVES...

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

MJ, Big Bear City,Ca — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:23:07 GMT

Terrorists are people too!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Mark Taylor — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:27:09 GMT

I have no sympathy for terror in any form and for any excuse. There are plenty of ways to resolve differences without terror and the killing of innocents. The radical arabs thrive on killing and bloodshed and have no tolerance for anyone or anything that differs from their mindset. They are reaping what they have sown.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Nguyen, San Francisco — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:30:01 GMT

I agree that people fighting for their causes are freedom fighters and not to be called as Terrorist. But if he made bombs to kill innocent people, he is a terrorist. The fighter will face his enemy bravely in fight, only cowarder would blow himself up to kill people in a coffe shop. There is no excuse to kill un-armed people, from any side.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

R. Hodson, Lakin, KS — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:31:12 GMT

What a waste of human life. All are precious in God's eyes.
Whoever said that there can be no justice or peace in the Middle East was far too prophetic.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

john doe, westerly ri — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:33:39 GMT

yea.... if these "freedom fighters" laid down their arms.... repsected everyones "right to exist".... peace would be world wide.
what is the goal of al-quieda? to kill anyone who does not "conform-assimulate-give up their rights".
with killers it is this way. you first. so the meek have no other resort. it is kill or be killed.never thought it would be like this at this age... after all the small holocusts... who knew?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Hank in Colorado — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:35:25 GMT

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22794305/ In this story Israel is ultimately criticized for "laying siege" to Gaza. And yet if you read CAMERA (google it, look it up) life in Gaza has been worsened by theivery of fuel supplies for a Gaza hospital by Hamas for its military and dirt, yes dirt, damaging a sewage plant in Gaza, creates a health issue. The Palestinian people, with awful leadership, continue to be victims of their own people. But Israel remains the easy target for all their problems. Or, in otherwords, if Mexicans lobbed rockets into USA, because they want to reclaim what they believe belongs to them, (the American Southwest) and the USA responded with superior fire power, then the USA is to blame for whatever woes would be suffered by the Mexicans along the common border. It's truly a world turned upside down.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Sean, Torrington CT — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:35:28 GMT

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Ralph Cooper, Chicago, Il — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:36:38 GMT

What a terrible tragedy. Why cannot BOTH sides learn
that the answer to all this violence is Sharing?
There is enough at this troubled land for both Palestinians and Israelis. This madness must cease.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

David P — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:36:45 GMT

This is the sad story of a seemingly unending tragedy. This boy should have been in school, dreaming of spending the weekend with his girlfriend, not exacting revenge on behalf of the insulated leadership. We of the masses always end up making the largest sacrifice, and learn later of the "greater good", trying to understand and see through our tears. What does it take to stop this unrelenting lunacy? It seems that the world is immune to the headline" X number of dead in bombing, shelling, whatever, in whatever middle eastern city today", and our leadership only pays attention when the current president decides to attempt to create a "legacy" by brokering some temporary band-aid fix for the problem. Something has to be done. People are not meant to live like this- on either side. And you people think there is a god?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Richard, Boise Idaho — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:37:02 GMT

There is no redemption for one who willingly blows up innocents...and by innocents I mean people in a marketplace, children in a school or people on a bus. Suicide bombers do not care who they kill and that makes their rhetoric meaningless. Many of them say they kill in the name of Allah, yet the Allah they seem to worship is a god of death. They worship death, not life. Freedom fighters?? Not hardly.

I know the author is not calling them that, and he does a good job in giving the facts of that they do. It just angers me that there is even a question as to what they are. So many try to make excuses for why these animals do what they do, but here's the bottom line folks. If you kill indiscriminantly...if you intentionally target women and children...then you are nothing more than a rabid dog that deserves death.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Isaiah — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:41:08 GMT

Israel creates terroists. There's a long litany of Israel's atrocities. Let's not play games here as if it were a great mystery. As you sow you shall reap. Israel sows the wind and reaps the whirlwind.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Christina, Las Vegas, NV — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:42:26 GMT

This story is very difficult to read. Yes, they are/were terrorists, but on the same token, they were young men doing what they had to do to survive and take care of their families. The government created them, then condemed them in the end. We in the US will hopefully never know or have to make the choice to do what these young men had to do.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Bobby, Las Vegas, NV — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:43:25 GMT

The responsibility for death of these young boys lies with the parents and relatives who allowed them, and in most cases encouraged them to engage in murder and terrorism, pure barbaric acts. These parents and relatives now pay the price and hopefully, others will learn from this and not create murderers.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Brandi Alexander Beltsville MD — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:44:04 GMT

You must be blind right? It's not the everyday Palestinians who are the problem it's the militants who siezed the gaza strip! They are in control of what goes in and goes out and are responsible for the distribution of supplies. Also lest we forget these same clowns have bee firing rockets into Israel! Gee can buy a lot of goats and coco cola (maybe even pepsi it's better) for the price of 1 rocket or am I wrong?
Think not, just think!!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

wishing for peace on earth, troy Mi — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:44:30 GMT

These are not men, these are boys, fighting someone elses war.... I will weep for their mother

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Pete, New York — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:45:42 GMT

How confusing can it be? He picked the wrong side and lost. Do you think it's a game?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

jay weinstein, miami, florida — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:47:10 GMT

This is some of the best journalism yet in helping those of us far removed to understand the pain on both sides of this conflict. Yes, the Israelis have the absolute right to take out these misguided killers...but in other times under other circumstances what a real waste of human potential!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Hmmmm — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:47:50 GMT

Greeaaat storrry... Let's make a martyr out of a killer. It's always the Israelis' fault, if they weren't on that land everything would be love and peace in the Middle East.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Casey Bekkum, Atlanta, Ga — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:49:11 GMT

OK... you seem to have a problem with Israel not pardoning a known and confessed murderer. He used terrorism but first and foremost when was the last time you have seen an article about someone blowing somebody up and then the authorities let them go. You are psychotic. IF I built a bomb and gave it to my friend and he ran into a mall and blew it up I bet you wouldn't be upset that America put me to death. Then again I'm a white American maybe if i was brown and from Africa or Asia you would have a little more sympathy for me. Get over America's superiority (and because we sell weapons to them that means Israel's too) we should treat these people like equals and that includes punishing their murderers too.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

RON SOLOMSON MARYLAND — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:49:38 GMT

I WONDER IF THE AUTHOR WOULD BE SO NEUTRAL AND UNDERSTANDING IF THESE NICE YOUNG MEN WERE TRYING TO KILL HIS WIFE AND CHILDREN, THE ARABS IN ISRAEL LIVE BETTER THAN THE ARABS IN THE ARAB WORLD. THE ARABS IN ISRAEL HOLD PUBLIC OFFICE AND DO NOT HAVE TO SERVE IN THE MILITARY. YET THEY ENJOY SOCIAL SERVICES.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

A muslim — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:51:24 GMT

I strongly believe that a day is comming when israel will have to accept defeat not by guns but by shear number of muslims around it and be squeezed like lemon.
The whole world is an accomplice to israeli attrocities even muslims who are sitting idly governed by their corrupt masters and going about their business and turning blind eye to injustice committed by occupiers for their own benefits.Muslims needs to overthrow their corrupt leaders and change things for themselves its your duty like Russians did during perestroĭka. What are they waiting for?.America to save them?.What happend to alla's word that muslims are like one body and if one part hurts the whole body hurts.
When Saddam tookover Kuwait,the whole world banded togather to put him back in his place.Why the world is not doing the same thing with israel? who has occupied lands for over 40 years while fellow muslims are deprived of food and basic necessities and slaughtered indiscriminately
and punished for standing up to their occupiers for their rights and beliefs.
If you will not standup to change things then nobody will.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Dennis Sheehan, Boston, MA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:51:45 GMT

It's always harder to judge when you get personally involved; where you experience relationship and share your time and self with others. The spectator has it easy - he can sit and rant and rave and easily condemn - there's no personal investment; everything is black and white. War is easy when you don't know your enemy; but sit down with him, talk and share your stories and so how hard it is to shoot him in the face.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Tim S., Cincinnati, Ohio — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:52:32 GMT

Sad part about all this is that the Palestinians don't want peace they want Israel gone so what should Isreal do. Just sit back and let the rockets rain down on them. I do not fault the Israelis at all we (the U.S.A) should cut off the funding we send to these terrorist then they might get the hint. But I doubt it. Quit making these terrorist out to hero's they are thugs and that's it.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

G P, Livonia, MI — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:52:33 GMT

Freedom fighters fight for freedom against those from whom they want to win that freedom; they do not kill or maim innocent people to make a point or to inflict terror on peaceful communities. One does not compare with the other.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

HANK, LAREDO TX — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:53:12 GMT

BOY, THAT'S A TOUGH ONE, BUT LET ME TAKE A SHOT AT IT. WHILE IT IS A REASONABLE ASSUMPTION THAT THEY AND THEIR SUPPORTERS BELIEVE THEMSELVES TO BE FREEDOM FIGHTERS, ANY BELIEF ON THEIR PARTS AS TO US OR THE JEWS BUYING THAT NONSENSE IT COMPLETELY WITHOUT THE ABILITY TO LOOK OUTSIDE A SITUATION. LET ME PUT THIS IN A SIMPLISTIC WAY SO THAT ALL THOSE AFFLICED WITH THE IDEA THAT "THEY SHALL OVERCOME" WILL UNDERSTAND OR MAYBE HAVE ANOTHER VIEW OF REALITY.

WE , AMERICANS AS A WHOLE OR AT LEAST THE MAJORITY,(AS IN DEMOCRACY) DON'T CARE ABOUT THEIR PLITE IN ANY WAY. THE WAY I SEE IT IS THAT WE (AMERICANS) HAVE PAID QUADRILLIONS OF DOLLARS (LITERALLY) FOR A SECURITY COMPANY (THE U.S. MILITARY, BOARDER PATROL, ARMY RESERVE ETC.) AND ONLY EXPECT TO BE PROTECTED. WHEN WE UNDER THIS SO CALLED PROTECTION ARE TREATENED OR ATTACTED, WE COLLECTIVELY EXPECT THE ENTIRE MIGHT OF OR SECURITY TO ANNIALATE THAT RISK WITHOUT REGARD TO THEIR PERSONAL REASONS OR THEIR TITLE BE IT CIVILIAN OR FREEDOM FIGHTER OR TERRORIST. IN THE GAME OF SURVIVAL ONLY EXISTING AND REPRODUCING ARE PERTINENT ISSUES. I.E. IF SOMEONE WERE TO ATTACT A NIEGHBORHOOD IN MY TOWN, IT WOULD NOT BE IMPORTANT IF IT WAS FOR RELIGIOUS REASONS OR FOR REESTABLISHING THEIR HOMELAND, THEY WOULD BE FLAT OUT DEAD AND GOOD RIDDANCE. THE POINT I AM TRYING T MAKE HERE IS THAT ULTIMATELY IN THE WAR ON TERROR EVENTUALLY WE WILL MAKE A DECISION ABOUT HOW MANY WE ARE WILLING TO LIVE (AND WE DO HAVE THAT POWER)AT THE RISK OF ENDANGERING OUR OWN SURVIVAL AND THE ANSWER WILL BE A BAD ONE FOR THE PLACES THAT TERRORIST INHABIT.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Brad Woodis White House TN — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:53:27 GMT

I normally wouldn't read stuff like this but I stumbled across it on msn homepage. I would like to commend the writer for an insightful look at whats going on over there. Very good reading!! I will look for more post on this sight in the future.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

lennox morgan — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:53:52 GMT

it is so sad when one country has so much dominance over another. peace will only come in that region when uncle sam begins to deal even handingly, and not let one have preference over the other. if Hammas was given a chance with the free and fair elections they had towards democracy, by those who called for those elections, things may be a little different now; but the democracy callers are making a mockery of de-mock-racy by calling Hammas a terrorist, even though the people elected them...let us all seek co-existence, not war.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Marie Dopico — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:54:04 GMT

They are nothing more than uncivilized thugs and terrorists. I hope they kill them all. The world will be much better off without them and all the other Muslim terrorists in the world.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Billy D — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:54:47 GMT

One down, another couple of thousand to go. Where is the sad story of the family of the VICTIMS of this terrorists bombs?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Michael S., Los Angeles, Ca — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:55:09 GMT

As a reader and human being, I agree with your point. As a Jew, I reluctantly understand. It is this 'understanding' that is the first step to peace. My question is: "When will the Palestinians 'understand' also and come to the table to talk peace instead of with bombs?"

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

oldefarte — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:56:54 GMT

This is a very enlightening article. Firstly, before I'm accused of being an Al Qaeda sympathizer or Muslim apologist, I'm a huge fan of Robert Spencer and a determined opponent to accommodation with Islamic hegemonists and jihadists, however, in order to effectively fight an enemy, it is also necessary to understand their motivations (as Guy Sajer and, later, Will Smith, observed, nobody willingly fights for evil and one must accept that even folks like Hitler have at least convinced themselves of the righteousness of their cause). All one has to do to understand the hatred of the Palestinians is to read a story like this or to watch the desperation of those people who are pouring over the Gazan border into Rafah to feed themselves in the face of the Israeli blockade (defended this morning, with absolutely no recognition of the enmity it causes, by the Israeli Foreign Minister). Do these things excuse the Palestinians' more hateful actions? No. Does it provide insight? Absolutely. Thank you for the article.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Eric Jalan, Costa Mesa, CA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:57:55 GMT

rare to see the other side of the story - thanks for this.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Yehuda Draiman, Northridge, CA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:00:31 GMT

ONE MAN'S TERRORIST, ANOTHER'S FREEDOM FIGHTER
By Martin Fletcher, NBC News Correspondent and Tel Aviv Bureau Chief

I find your descriptions of these terrorists reprehensible. Anyone who kills people for the sake of killing is a murderer like any other killer and should be treated as such. You cannot justify liking or tolerating a killer. I am sure if he killed some one in your family or a close friend of yours, you would treat him as a murderer - which he is. He finally got what he deserved, like any other terrorist should get anywhere in the world.
It is despicable to rationalize what the terrorists are doing killing men, women and children and intimidating their own people.
Everyone had the option to live in peace, but they chose otherwise.
If you could overcome the hate that is instilled in the Arab population - life would have a chance.
Real peace and coexistence would bring prosperity to the region beyond your wildest dreams.

As I one quoted "the only time you would have a chance for peace is, when the Arab mother would love her child more than she hates the Israelis' ". That means she would not allow her child to be a suicide bomber

The Qur'an 17:104 - states the land belongs to the Jewish people

If the historic documents, comments written by eyewitnesses and declarations by the most authoritative Arab scholars are still not enough, let us quote the most important source for Muslim Arabs:
"And thereafter we [Allah] said to the Children of Israel: 'Dwell securely in the Promised Land.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

J.W. Smith — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:03:38 GMT

It's not difficult to distinguish Freedom Fighters from terrorists. Freedom Fighters self-identify as such. They are proud to wear uniforms or distinguishing markings indicating their role and their status clearly to those against whom they are fighting. Most would never obscure their faces with masks or hoods becuase they are proud of the fact that they are fighting on the high road for freedom to which all people are entitled. They fight against, and sometimes kill, COMBATANTS of the forces that oppress them and deny the freedoms for which they are fighting. They do not target civilians intentionally, and are saddened when they accidentally kill an innocent non-combatant. They do not rejoice in the streets over the misery of others.

Terrorists, it is clear, are not freedom fighters.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Patricia L Hammons,, California USA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:04:10 GMT

Turning the Ummin into the Thummin, The reality of the heart of flesh into the heart of living. Ummin is the inside(zion) working out the moment it is ready to be revealed,Thummin, the moment of physical decision is the day of recognition(salvation) Deuteronomy 27:2

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

bruce,bristol,R.I. — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:06:11 GMT

please save the violins for these muslim killers who could have peace any time they want all they have to do is stop killing jews and christians.why don't you write a story about the christians living in bethlehem oh there are no christians left they have been driven out by those wonderful freedom fighting muslims.the few allowed to stay pay the dhimmi tax or else.i won't hold my breath waiting for you to expose the muslim assault on christians.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

M Tiedel, Ypsilanti,MI — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:07:01 GMT

After delivering vital supplies of a classified nature to Israel, and after being treated like I was a criminal and an intruder by the Israeli Security,I wonder who is really running Israel!. The common Israelies that I met were fine people , who just wanted peace and to make ends meet.These Israelis were born and raised in Israel. However, The "Outsiders" as I refer to them are NOT born and bred Israelis. They are "Imports" who are hostile, beligerent and intollerant of all who are originally fron Israel. I'll never return to Israel, and until Israel becomes and true tollerant nation,I have little hope for peace in the region.Israel needs to be run by the "natives".!!!!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

brian fancher — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:07:36 GMT

what i have seen is , israel has built on grounds with hard work that nobody wanted until they made it something , then the fighting started , now i cannot understand that hammas fires rockets into israel then cries when they get fired back at . but then i cannot
understand islam teaching of peace then killing thier neighbors over not doing what they do .they are sick
people who have killed many generations on teaching
this hate.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

M. Nesson, Framingham, MA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:07:53 GMT

A very touching account. I have always said that young people are taken advantage of because they think they have nothing to lose, and most times, they do not. But they must or this is what happens. Is there an answer, I hope so.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

M. Montgomery, TX — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:08:42 GMT

I find it hard to sympathize with you when you knew full well what he did to gain such notariety in his particular region of the world. That's the trouble with some of you journalists. You write about a bad person and make him out like he is some hero knowing full well that he made the bombs and he sent the people to blow them up. It's your fault that you got to know him personally and now you want us to feel sorry for his plight and ultimate death. He made the bed he chose to lie in and he suffered for it being hunted and then killed. Do you even care about the innocent people he was responsible for killing or is it that you feel he deserves a second chance when those that have been killed never even got a first chance? I can't condone that kind of leniency for a terrorist that did just that and spread terror in the hearts of the innocent. You speak of him being a freedom fighter. If he had just let go of his hatred and not followed those had the wrong idea about how to live, he just might be alive and living free instead of bing dead, dead, dead!! Would you show a sense of sympathy to him if one of those children who road the same busses had been blown up by one of his bombs? I think not. while it is Christian of you to forgive him for what he was, all snakes will be caught at some time.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

L.P.C., Wichita, KS — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:11:51 GMT

Why is it that every single suicide bombing by a Muslim is reported and yet large scale atrocities committed by Israel against the Palestinian people go largely unreported, as our government turns a blind eye? How much longer will the Palestinian people have to suffer and die before the world takes notice and does something to alleviate their suffering?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Joe, Fairfield, New Jersey — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:13:11 GMT

Mr. Fletcher's article is one of the most thoughtful that I have read regarding the Palestinian - Israeli conflict. I have friends on both sides, none of them are monsters. But, they all fervently believe in their cause. It will take men and women of wisdom and patience to solve this conflict. I wish them well.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Robert Klein — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:14:25 GMT

Like Sharon the Butcher.
The Zionist are the REAL TERRORIST.

For example:
Read about the U.S.S Liberty where the Zionist (ISRAEL) attacked US (USA) and even our own government tried to cover it up because the ZIONIST have crawed DEEP into our pockets (USA government sold it own Citizens out to make a dollor, along with political reasons)

Nothing much has changed.
ZIONist are still killing innocent people, taking their homes and land.

Just read and study the unbias true...

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Frank Carta — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:15:36 GMT

"One man's terrorist, another man's freedom fighter".. interesting that the media would put a statement like that on everyone's shoulders who is fighting to make ends meet. Example: You have a lot of stuff. I don't. I take what you have, or blow up some of your stuff. You say ok, here you can have some of my stuff if you do not blow up anymore of it. I say ok. I stop blowing up your stuff until I need more stuff. Then what do you think I will do? I am Free! Right? I am Free! I do not have to use legitimate channels to get what I want, I can steal it from you and give it to other less fortunate people than you, and call it liberation. Right? Not.
That is not freedom. The stealer is not a freedom fighter. He just stopped playing by the rules, and you who call them freedom fighters are the naive, guilty feeling types that will be taken over by the bullies who want what you have.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

med,NC — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:15:48 GMT

I can’t believe in today’s world people still think Palestinians are the terrorists. We can see occupation never worked .The only country in the world is occupied is Palestine till Iraq came in the picture.
UN GIVES the right to use any mean to get red of occupier. So please help the oppressed and don’t send more money or help to the occupier

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Jack Olson, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:16:24 GMT

Israeli terrorists bombed the King David Hotel, murdered British officers and cowardely assassinated Lord Moyne and Count Bernadotte. They are called heroes of the Israeli war for independence. Palestinians who rebel against the occupying nation of Israel are labeled terrorists. What Israel is doing in Gaza and the West Bank is no different than what another occupying army did in Warsaw seventy years ago. Hopefully we will see the day when Israeli war criminals are tried and executed for their crimes as those WWII war criminals were.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Larry, Tampa, FL — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:17:33 GMT

Who is a terrorist and who is a liberator is determined primarily by whose side the fighter is on. If he or she is on thier side, they are terrorists. If on our side, they are liberators.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Greg, Philadelphia, PA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:18:57 GMT

Palestinians were offered peace and 99% of what they wanted as far as land is concerned, including a part of Jerusalem for their capital. But accepting this offer would be the end of "straggle" as far as Arafat was concerned. So he decided to reject the offer and start a second intifada, which ruined any prospects of peace. No they blame it on Jews. Sure, why not? Everybody else does. Those land and money grabbing bastards. Yeah, right. Ask Hamas if they want peace with Israel. Hey, we already know the answer. "Military struggle" for Palestinians is a way to avoid responsibilities for their own lives. Why? EU, UN and other heart-bleeding morons around the world pay them up just to keep them under control. World will pay dearly for it.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Dave, Denver, CO. — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:21:29 GMT

I have not an ounce of sympathy. It's one thing to fight off oppression, another to kill innocent people in the name of your cause. These ignorant fools are the kindling that keeps the fires of hatred stoked in the middle east. If they would just respect life, people on both sides could live in peace and work out their differences. But as long as these murderous thugs continue their mindless killing, good people will suffer and peace will only be a dream. Palestinians are not being killed by Israel, but by their own ignorance and hatred.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Marty CR Iowa — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:22:48 GMT

Wars are fought for many things, power, religion, territory,money, hate. This mother has lost 2 sons, I cry with her. It is a gigantic problem the youth are facing today. To kill in the name of any of the above is driven into their minds by leaders that want to rule others. The individual means nothing to them. How does the world solve this problem? Make living out your life in peace a priority, living in peace with all. Get rid of the teachers of hate. This is not freedom, when the youth must bear guns, hide in alleys, have bodyguards and survive or die. The youth of the world is the future, lets give them a sense of direction. Security, education, ideals that they can all work together to save not only themselves but others. It is a fruitless journey to die so young. I do not care what your color, nationality, religion is, you are all human beings with just one life to live. Dead you add nothing, alive there is a promise of a better day for all. A useful mind can make a hugh difference in whatever you choose to do. As a mother myself, I ask for World Peace and say lets get together and stop killing each other. Please.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Guntis Terauds, North Branch, MI — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:26:03 GMT

gee if making a bomb makes one a terroist, then we have bunches working among us right here in USA. Does making the delivery vehicle for the bombs also make one a terroist? That would add more. By our own governments dictate anyone who provides funds to terrorist if a terrorist themselves. Well that makes all of congress and the top honcho a terrorist. What about us poor taxpayers, who would rather stay out of jail and pay our tax to enable congress to pay the bomb makers?

I am more concerned about the leadership that doesn't get their little hands dirty than I am concerned about the poor saps like me that pays taxes to support terrorist right here in the USA. Or for that matter the ones that deliver, or throw the bombs, after all they are acting on the orders of the clean handed elite.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Mohamed MALLECK, Swift Current Canada — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:27:40 GMT

The author writes : " I thought, yes, but Ahmed sent the suicide bombers, he made the bombs. What else would you call him? "

Answer : "Resistance fighter".

Oh. c'mon, Mr. Fletcher, if you were in Ahmad's place, would you not be proud of yourself?

In fact, if I was in his place I'd do the same thing and probably would feel bad that the thought crossed my mind that I wanted to give myself up but Israel would not let me.

Give myself up for what? Utter humiliation, infinite repression, the victim of limitless injustice?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Tom Largo Fl. — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:31:33 GMT

" the quailty of mercy is not strange" as the quote goes. He who lives by the "sword shall die by the sword" This goes for both sides of the conflicts. the true way to peace lies in non-violence. (ie Jesus Ghandi, Martin luther King)hate destroys all the parties in these conflicts. Clearly the palistians are the pawns in a devastaging game between the Isreal and the ARabs. The Israelees are the scape goat of the Arab Monarchies very successfully oppressing there own people. But no one has the right to murder people for political ends, including the US.
One can not abondon its principles and become who you hate the most. if you do you have lost your humanity

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

JUNE W. DETROIT MICHIGAN — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:31:42 GMT

A TERRORIST IS A TERRORIST AND BREEDS TERROR. MY HEART BREAKS FOR THE MOTHER OF THESE AND THE OTHER YOUNG MEN WHO DIE IN THIS WAY. ONE WONDERS IF THEY EVEN KNOW WHAT IT IS THEY ARE FIGHTING FOR ANYMORE, SUICIDE BOMBERS INCITED AND PERHAPS CAJOLED AND HOODWINKED BY THESE YOUNG MEN DIE TOO, OFTEN THEY ARE WHAT WE HERE CONSIDER STILL CHILDREN. THERE IS NO CLEAR CUT ANSWER HERE, AND I UNDERSTAND THE WRITER BEING SO TORN, BUT I HAVE NO SYMPATHY FOR THE YOUNG MEN, ONLY THE ONES THEY HURT.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Rami Saidi Troy, Mi — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:43:18 GMT

Defending your freedom and your remaining land, or asking for a descent living like a human being not like animals, never been a terrorist act.

The Palestinians have less than 10% of land from what they used to have in 1947. That is the year when the Israelis came over and created all this mess.

It is not the religion, what they are fighting for. Its their own normal life and means of living.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

PG East Patchogue, NY — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:43:46 GMT

AS A PERSON OF (NORTHERN) IRISH DESCENT, I ALREADY KNEW THAT WHETHER ONE IS DEFINED AS A TERRORIST OR A FREEDOM FIGHTER DEPENDS ON POINT OF VIEW. CAN'T WE ACCEPT THAT AND MOVE ON?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

A muslim, Baltimore,MD — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:45:53 GMT

I wanted to share few words but I decided ...aaa..leave it...u americans are so brain washed by your media and governemnt that you cant even see the second side pf he picture.. You are the one who are producing these terrorists , you produced Osama for Afghanistan JIhad and called him freedom fighter against Russia. Yo uare the one who support israel in weapons and provoke israel to kill as many as Possible. Your president was the one who went there last week taking his so called PEACE MISSIOn and they came up with the plan of cutting out their electricity and food supply. Yo uare the ones who support Indian government against kashmiris. So You guys name any state terrorism in the world and USA is the biggest supporter of that terrorism. Your government their policies are the preplanned terrorism plans against muslims in the world. Really by seeing how my brotheers and sisters have been killed by USA and ISRAEL terrorists, I feel happy when I see nay israeli die or even ........

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Patrick A. Toffler — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:48:32 GMT

For LPC, if you are aware of unreported atrocities committed by anyone, report them. Also, the people most able to help the Palestinians are their Arab neighbors. Sign a fair Treaty with Israel, establish a viable Palestinian State, develop an economy, provide modern education, public services, health care, and live in peace. What's so hard about that, unless that's not what they really want? What is it the you want the "world" to do; and who in the world do you think is asleep?
PS: Where in this article does it address the young men's religious beliefs?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Eric F — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:49:22 GMT

Ignorant fools, fighting for the right to live in dirt hovels on a worthless stretch of land.

Hey Israelis! Hey Palestinians! You both lost, alright? This fighting is pointless, you both already lost. Just knock it off already, you're embarrasing yourselves in front of the whole world.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Kent, Lincoln, NE — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:49:47 GMT

"American 'Patriots' who fought the British were by all definitions 'terrorists'. Ah, gotta love that 'Moral Relativism', eh? "

So how many civilian people were these American Revolutionaries targeting? How many suicide bombs did they make? Talk about moral relativism...

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Paul Kessler, Fort Worth, Tecsas — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:54:09 GMT

How convenient for you to be able to capture all this on film. Could this be another one of the staged Arab tragedies to gain sympathy? There have been many already proven. It appears like you, like many of your cohorts allowed yourself to be used by one side. I guess the daily rockets from Gaza into Israel are a walk in the park.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

S, MI USAUSAUSAUSA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:56:03 GMT

Someone who cowardly blows up someone they don't 'like' is a moron and gets everything that they have coming to them. Karma will get him and he won't realize it, but he is a coward. A REAL MAN FIGHTS WITH HIS FIST. What's the matter? Afraid to get beat up? Of course, remember, he's a coward, as is his family and cohorts.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

bert trim — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:00:07 GMT

Comon folks. These people have never seen "peace" I think they honestly don't know what the word means. It's in their nature, their tribes have been killing one another for many years before this. This will never be resolved. The fighting, hatred, and envy will continue through their children and children's children for generations to come. Or until they get what they want (The end of Israel) Then they can settle back into the "stone age" again. (until the next time)

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

sam, New york, New york — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:00:12 GMT

witch side in inflicting terror, the ones who stop medicine, food, water, and stop you from leaving your house. or the side that is fighting to live. Isreal is the largest terror group in the world. we only hear how a rocket fell in a twon in isreal and hit nothing, we dont hear of the bambardment isreal did the day befor. what do you want kids like ahmad to do when they see their father, mother, friends and fellow countrie men die every day. Look at the numbers between the deaths of isrealies and palestinians you can't compair the two. Isrealies kill palestinians like they are dogs rats or worse, but we always feel sorry for isreal because that is what our media wants us to do. We need more unbias coverage in the middle east and across the world.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Dixon, America — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:01:19 GMT

Soldiers often die violent deaths.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Tina, Miami, Fl — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:01:40 GMT

It would be a nice change for those who assert that Israel is a terrorist nation or other such fantasies would actually read some history. There is a world-wide acceptance of the fabrication that has been created by the Arabs but is false. Israel ended up with territory after the 1948 and 1967 wars. Both were started or provoked by the Arabs but ended in victory for the Israels and resulting in the loss of land for the Arabs. Even before the independence of Israel there was terrorism directed at the Jews in the middle East. The Arabs really have no right to Judea or Samaria or Gaza but Israelis are so sick and tired of dealing with them they're ready to build a wall a be done with it. Of course, the Arabs who are totally dependent on the Israeli economy don't like that idea either. Let them move to Jordan or Egypt.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Bob Fan, Palenstine — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:01:43 GMT

“If puss and dog can get together, why cant we love one another?” - Bob Marley

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Randy, Newport Beach, CA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:03:38 GMT

It has always appeared to me that Palestinians have targeted innocence and the Israelis target the “Freedom Fighters” , yes some innocence have lost their lives due to Israel’s actions…but they were not the target.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

bobby — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:04:34 GMT

It is so sad for people not to look at te whole situation fairly!

Is if fair for Israel to occupy land and people and torture, kill, imprison a nation.

You can just look at the UN resolutions demanding that Israel return all the land it occupied in 1967.

does anyone in the world today talk about that?! Is it not ironic to have the entire world muted!

Terrorists or not: If I come to your home and kill your mom, Imprison your brother, and take your house and throw you into some godforsaken country to starve or barely live, would you give me a speach about terrorism?!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Let me tell you and the world of the simplist sulution to the middle east conflict, RETURN THE LAND TO ITS PEOPLE AND GET YOUR BOARDERS LOCKED AND HAVE PEACE! nobody is going to blow himself up in your neiborhood!

Be real and look at the situation and its origin. It is Israel that created the plight for themselves and the rest of the world.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

mohan ead — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:04:41 GMT

Just as there is no Christian Homeland and an Muslim Homeland, neither a Hindu nor a Budist homeland, there is no Jewish homeland. What ever that troubled piece of land is, it must be governed based on democratic values. No preferences to Religion or Faith. Just the Social and Political Order.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Samjay — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:04:43 GMT

. Hatred is never appeased by hatred in this world. By non-hatred alone is hatred appeased. This is a law eternal.

6. There are those who do not realize that one day we all must die. But those who do realize this settle their quarrels.

Quote: Dhammapada, yamakavagga.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Marco — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:04:48 GMT

AAAwwwwwwww... the little purveyor of death and instability sad because they won't leave him alone???? The choices we make will always follow us. If you want peace in the future, you must work for peace in the present. This man worked for death and chaos. No sympathy here, but it is a tragedy.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Chris B, Chicago,il — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:05:28 GMT

These are men and men do terrible things all the time. Some little and some big. What i dont understand about this holyland feud is that both sides are so religious and yet they think it is their land. Not Gods. Im not even religious. These boys receive no sympathy from me. They kill innocient women and and little kids ON PURPOSE. How many countries in the mideast or religious leaders have stated they would wipe Israel off the map if they could? These people wonder why this is happening to them. You sit at home getting rockets shot at you randomly from across a border. This boys life was rightfully taken. He promoted suicide and death. Just like any isreali that commits immoral actions or unjust actions against another person.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Mario Sobers, Brooklyn, New York — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:06:42 GMT

The that's confrontitng the Palestinain people is clear. Thw world is catching on and the voices of truth is coming to the front. The heart and problem of this world is coming from the zionist and it will be for the freedom fighters to continue in their strggle for their people. May the Creator be with them.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

joseph w. trimarco, chicago, IL — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:06:43 GMT

This article is an unfortunate truth. The "terrorists" are also human with the same hopes, dreams, & wishes for a better future for themselves & others. I am unimpressed with some of the comments that remain as fixed as this sad youth Ahmad. What bothers me is that both "sides" in this mid-eastern melodramma refuse to look at the part each are playing in this madness. Rather, it appears they are willing to continue to play their roles till the bitter end. And, just like this story of Ahmad, that is the pathogenic end. To distinguish "terorist" from "freedom fighter", "rule of law", & all that other claptrap is disingenuious & avoids any serious discussion of the factors that may bring about some resolution to this on-going tragedy.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Abe, NJ — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:07:31 GMT

History is always written by the people who win the war. Who will be called a Patriot and who a Terrorist solely depends on who wins. Had Germany won the WWII, the US and the allied forces would be called the evil capitalistic forces and would have been divided just like Germany was after WWII into East and West Germany. I am not against people fighting for their Land, but please dont blow up innocent people. That is just wrong on every front.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

h Hsiao new york ny — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:08:13 GMT

Occupation is the reason for the palestanian-israel conflick.Why the palestanian people have to pay the price for the hollocus that kill million by european countru's people.Now the US support the aggressor is not justified the palestanian and israel war

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Mario Sobers, Brooklyn, New York — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:08:23 GMT

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Joe, Mpls — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:09:00 GMT

We have to remember what else is going on here. Israel was "created" because post WWII didn't want them in Europe. Heck, Russia (Soviet Union) didn't want them. It would only seem that where they are now is a good place? Why? Because they also claim that as their home. There were many Jews that lived in that area as well.
Now. What is needed is for some Muslim that is highly respected to stand up and say that it is time to end the killing. Israel and Palestine and the rest of them can get along. They just need to find a way to come to some sort of an agreement. They need to stop killing each other. Plain and simple. I mean both sides. Hamas and the rest want to destroy Israel. Remember that many Empires tried to do so and failed. The latest was Germany and that lot. It didn't work out to well for them did it?
This can't be that hard for leaders of the Arab/ Muslim world to sit down with leaders of Israel and work out a way to coexsist. Israel seems to try and everytime they do something is blown up.
Don't blame the US totally. The US and others would help the Muslims out if they stopped killing every non-muslim. If they keep saying they can't work or live with Jews then why don't they go to Brookly, NY. Look at that population and see how many cultures work together. Or the rest of the US. We have our problems, yes, but we are not blowing everything up are we? Why? Because nobody here would stand for it.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Brian, Kansas City, MO — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:09:23 GMT

I don't know why we continue to find logic behind terrorist actions. For anyone to say they are men is not right. They hide behind women and children and send others to die. I like the comment live by the sword, die by the sword.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

christina KElm — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:10:01 GMT

Would you want someone like these nice young terrirists living in your neighborhood?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

John — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:11:01 GMT

If the United States would quit catering to the jews we would probably have a lot less trouble with the Arabs, though I hate them both. They're all nothing but a bunch of trouble. Money hungry jews and bomb happy moslems.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

JC, WI, USA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:11:06 GMT

Looks like J-Post responses here. Haterd of the arabs by God's chosen people. Ya right. Rememeber all that is was the jews that were the original ME terrorist. In '47 they were bombing the arabs on a daily basis. Trying to get them to leave thier lands. Of course the zionist want you to beleive other wise. That they left on their own. You jews of today are NOT the Hebrews of the Bible. And that means you are NOT entitled to any land that you think is yours. YOu stole the land that the arabs were living on, and now you hate them more for doing to you what you did to them. You are as bad as your neighbors that you call terrorist.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Earl Worsham, Danville, Virginia — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:11:27 GMT

What is not included in this story is an interview with the parents of some of the onces that blew themsleves up by the bombs that were made by this guy. I am appalled at all the suffering and needless death that is going on in this world in the name of relegion or the perceived notion that anyone that is not a Muslim is an infidel. This is but one God and while there are many religions in the world, God established on church on this earth and that was his church. Most issue or differences of opinion in this world can be resolved with civility and a respect for human life. However there are times when war is necessary but only after all other options have been exhuausted.

I also try to refrain from passing judgement on anyone inlcuding those considered to be terriosts because if we live our lifes the way God has outlined we should be humble and pray for our enemies. All life has value and we were all created equal which means we all have the same inate needs and desires as human beings. However, if you make a poor choice and attempt to take matters into your own hand then you must be prepared to pay the price of your individual decesion and suffer the consequeces. But being young normally the best decesion is not made and do not take into consideration that this not only will impact your life but could poetenitally impact your family, community, and even country.

My prayers are with each and every one of you and may God bless your and civility is finally realized in this world.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Rick Cannon, Columbia, Maryland — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:12:29 GMT

THE REAL TRAGEDY IS THAT HAMAS AND IT'S LEADERS ARE NOT BURIED 6 FEET UNDER INSTEAD OF IBRAHIM. THE BOMB MAKER MADE HIS OWN LIFE A DEAD END WHEN HE BLEW UP PEOPLE.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Sami Hansen, Dearborn, Mi — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:13:10 GMT

You said it Martin, he lived in the allys of Balata refugee camp. Now ask the question, why did he have to be born and diein a refugee camp when his family was uprooted by teh zionist terrists from Haifa, Safat, Ako , or may his village was one of 365 Palestinian villages demolished and boldozed from the fac eof Palestine to create awiming pools for imoprted people from Europe and all over the world.
If some body comes and takes over NYC the same way as these criminals took over Palestine, what will the American young men do? I am sure they will do the same as teh Palestinians do.
Thank you for at least showing that Palestinians are humans and their blood is red as well

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Jane, New York, NY — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:13:24 GMT

I'm sure that Billy the Kid was a lovable little rascal also. However, the families of those he killed might have a different opinion. Do you feel sorry for those who blew up a young girl's Bat Mitzvah party also? How about the ones who blew up a Passover dinner filled with REALLY TERRIFYING 70 and 80 year olds? Sorry, but sob stories only cover the fact that this guy was a terrorist. He lived by the sword and he died by the sword and according to his religion he's now in paradise with 72 virgins and a 28 beautiful little boys (in case he swings that way, I guess). Of course, no one has ever come back to tell us any of this BS is true. Forgive me if I have my doubts. One more life wasted for an empty cause.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Dubb Carta — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:14:00 GMT

How can you call someone a "good guy" when hes sending people to blow my people up??

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Sam Krause, Passaic, NJ — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:14:03 GMT

Israel has tried and tried to help the Palestinians economically, medically, scientifically, etc. The Palestinians only want Israel destroyed. Let's not live in a fairy tale. There is plenty of land for he Palestinians in other Arab countries. Israel is smaller than the state of New Jersey. They don't want the land; they want the Jews dead, G-d forbid. And, what the rest of you don't know is that, they want the United States destroyd as well. 911 was not a "made-for-TV movie.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

brett jackson, brooklyn, ny, — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:16:18 GMT

wow, this article is extremley disturbing... it is because of people like you that sympathize with criminals such as the story above that they get to publicize their crimes where people who dont know the truth can actually be fooled by this nonsense, scince when did it become ok to purposly murder innocent people? which is what they do, lets call it what it is not martyrs, not vigilantes but terrorists and criminals that deserve what they get, including their parents for raising not children but killers! educate urself

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

D Gordon, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:17:46 GMT

The main problem is something that is never mentioned. The real problem is that there are a few politicians heading the various factions that benefit from the constant war and unrest. The leaders of terrorist organizations simply like the power. They don't really care about their followers, generally speaking. They probably only care about their own families and the feeling of power, not to mention all the benefits that come along with power. No matter how many of the terrorist leaders that get killed, there will always be more stepping up because of their greed and thirst for power. This is why the main goal has to be peace, prosperity and calm for the populations, so that the radicals will be unable to garner support for themselves. Bottom line is that they thrive on desperate conditions because those same conditions provide the breeding grounds for recruiting terrorists.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

nyc — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:18:26 GMT

Aparthied occupation that murders innocent civilians is EVIL.
Just like South Africa!
Remember how the US Supported the evil of Apartied "Ian Smith"
Bribing US Politicans (Campaign Financing)won't help the world recognize Israel.
Go ahead,,,,play the Anti Semite card now!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Joe Blow — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:18:59 GMT

Paul Revere and the Terrorists? What about the Minute Terrorists that dumped tea in the Boston Harbor and blew up British supplies? What about the Isrealis who killed the British governor and his wife on their way home from curch in 1948 to sway the UN vote? History always gets to chose who is a terrorist and who is a freedom fighter. If the average American woke up as a Palestinian, he would kiss his kids good night and go blow up Isrealis until he was caught. I don't balme them. This should have had some resolution in the last 50 years.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Arnold Kiner, Brooklyn, NY — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:19:40 GMT

It does not matter what your cause is, one who kills innocent people is a terrorist. No cause ever justifies killing a fellow human being. If you want to correct something, do it by non-violent means. The record of the last 60 years shows that the Arabs have refused to accept any of the peaceful, non-violent solutions to the Middle East conflict. The 1947 Partition Plan passed by the UN was rejected. All following proposals to end the conflict by peaceful means were always accepted by Israel, then rejected by the Arabs who resorted to wars, terrorism and killings.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

ronda, ft lauderdale florida — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:20:06 GMT

Mr Fletcher,
I have watched you cover all the stories in the middle east, i often wonder if you are jewish and if yes how unsafe it must be to cover these stories. again if you were jewish you would not be-friend a suicide bomber and his family-ever.i get tired of the constant coverage of the palestinian plight, i hate to see anyone suffer but so much attention is put there by nbc and never much about those who live in Sderot and whose lives are so disrupted and changed forever. has nbc forgotten these people or is the world once again indiffent to the Jews? the simple answer to all would be for the rockets to STOP. WHY will the palestinians continue to do this at the expense of their people. Is it easier to be a victim than to help yourself?once again when the palestinians love their children more than violence this will end. i find this a story i cannot sympathize with, unless this family can make ammends.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Bill in KY — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:22:48 GMT

I did some research on the muslim belief they believe in the same God as the Christian and the Jews. The God of Abraham. So they also believe in history before him including Moses and the ten commandments.
If you look in the kuran Thou shalt not kill, is still in there and it says all life is sacred. So if you are a good muslim, how do you get around that????

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Yehuda Draiman, Northridge, CA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:24:00 GMT

NO PALESTINIAN STATE – No land concessions R2

Imagine that the various people who settled in the United States for the past 300 years decided one day that they one to parcel the United States into an independent State just for them, would the American public go for it. The Answer is absolutely NO.

The situation in Israel today is no different. The Arabs there are not Palestinians, there is no such Arab nation as Palestine or Palestinian people.

Europeans countries today are consisting of numerous people from other countries. Would the Europeans people cede part of their country to set up another State in their midst. The answer is absolutely NO.

All the Arabs in Israel and surrounding areas are from the various Arab nations, such as Jordan, Syria, Egypt, Lebanon and other Arab nations.

Prominent PLO Arab says there are no 'Palestinians' and no "Palestine"

PLO executive committee member Zahir Muhsein admitted in a March 31, 1977 interview with a Dutch newspaper Trouw.

"The Palestinian people do not exist. The creation of a Palestinian state is only a means for continuing our struggle against the state of Israel for our Arab unity. In reality today there is no difference between Jordanians, Palestinians, Syrians and Lebanese. Only for political and tactical reasons do we speak today about the existence of a Palestinian people, since Arab national interests demand that we posit the existence of a distinct 'Palestinian people' to oppose Zionism. "

The Qur'an 17:104 - states the land belongs to the Jewish people

If the historic documents, comments written by eyewitnesses and declarations by the most authoritative Arab scholars are still not enough, let us quote the most important source for Muslim Arabs:
"And thereafter we [Allah] said to the Children of Israel: 'Dwell securely in the Promised Land. And when the last warning will come to pass, we will gather you together in a mingled crowd'.".
017.104
YUSUFALI: And We said thereafter to the Children of Israel, "Dwell securely in the land (of promise)": but when the second of the warnings came to pass, We gathered you together in a mingled crowd.
PICKTHAL: And We said unto the Children of Israel after him: Dwell in the land; but when the promise of the Hereafter cometh to pass We shall bring you as a crowd gathered out of various nations.
SHAKIR: And We said to the Israelites after him: Dwell in the land: and when the promise of the next life shall come to pass, we will bring you both together in judgment.
- Qur'an 17:104 -
Any sincere Muslim must recognize the Land they call "Palestine" as the Jewish Homeland, according to the book considered by Muslims to be the most sacred word and Allah's ultimate revelation.

Yehuda Draiman

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Dave Hoobler, Toledo, oh — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:26:31 GMT

It is of course true that we are all human beings, but when we give up our free will to mindless reilgion that only seeks to oppress and control for the benefit of only a few then wars like that one occur. It is also depressing to see that some people are unable to see the difference between freedom fighters who want democracy and equal rights for all and those seeking to estabish another repressinve regime. It is obvious that the palestinians have been fed a pile of politcal/religious hatred and will not ever accept peace until cold hard reality forces them to reasses their goals.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

john, seattle — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:26:34 GMT

REFUGEES. hoiefully the 'jews/isarelis' let these refugees return, unlike the last time when the jews took over THEIR PALESTINIAN LAND. and their are still refugees, not to mention the ones SHARON killed in 1982.
USA needs to rethink who they blindly support over there. THIS IS AWFUL WHAT ISRAEL IS DOING.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Mike,Cleveland,Ohio — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:28:14 GMT

He got what he deserved death.He was a cowardly terrorist killing innocent woman and children,one down many more to go.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Friendly Dan, Delray Beach, FL — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:28:22 GMT

These are people that cheered and danced in the streets when our fellow Americans were murdered on 9/11. I'm glad he's dead.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Jerry M. — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:28:27 GMT

Mr. Fletcher, you have unbelievable nerve writing this story and doing the things you claim to have done: "My NBC colleagues and I met them in their safe houses, hid with them in the alleys..." I wonder how many innocent people were killed by these terrorists while you "hid" with them. You now have blood on your hands for aiding and abetting the terrorists. Equating those engaged in suicide bombing with the innocent civilians they target is completely asinine. You and your NBC colleagues who helped and hid with the terrorists should be tried of treason.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Linda Burbank, IL — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:30:03 GMT

God bless you and your story Martin. Thank you.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

owen, san francisco — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:33:46 GMT

a fair amount of these comments show exactly where the problem lies. with everybody pointing fingers and trying to say wrong and right comes a HUGE amount of misinformation. those that so commonly blame the 'zionists' need to read about the six day war, the months leading up to it and it's aftermath. the 'palestinian supporters' most often show their ignorance, though both sides are equally wrong, and equally right. the 'zionists' were the ones who started and perfected the art of terrrorism, against the british in the 20s, 30s, and 40s - now they can hide behind uniforms of respectibility... the funniest thing? there is much evidence that israel was NOT the 'home of the jews' - they moved there shortly before roman times, and the romans renamed towns after towns in the bible out of ignorance, before the smashed jerusalem and scattered the twelve tribes. in fact there is so much evidence they originally lived in what is now saudi arabia that the kingdom of saud bulldozed whole villiages to stop archaelogical digging (imagine if it was found that the holiest sites in islam were the former home of their hated enemies the jews) and even more pathetic, the arabs and jews got along for most of the past two thousand years, their fights always circled around 'western intervention'...

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

V A. Vega, Honolulu, Hawaii — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:35:40 GMT

A terrorist kills everyone and everything in their path, including their own people. They are actually practicing self-genocide, hardly what I would call "freedom fighting". I always looked at "freedom fighters" as people who went after specific military, or goverenment targets to protest specific political policies, not because of a non-ending circle of revenge that seems to be all Islam is about. The killing of innocent by-standers, children, women, blowing up busses, flying planes into buildings, and chopping off heads doesn't constitute "freedom fighting". All it says to me is homicide-and mass murder. Albeit, it's mass murder with a blanket excuse using religion and ancient tradition as an overal explanation.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Andrew, Calgary Alberta — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:38:04 GMT

I agree with Nguyen above. Targetting civilians makes you a terrorist.

The Japanese used suicide attacks very effectively in WWII (kamikazes), but only against military targets. As a result they retained their honor,were never labelled as terrorists, and are respected to this day. After the war, they pursued the way of peace and thrived economically as a result.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Andrew - Phila., PA USA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:44:38 GMT

Ignorance and mis-guided emotion fuel these lesser-humans' hearts and minds. Palestine has been given so many chances and perks by a civilized, cultured, evolving neighbor.
Each time, these concessions are accepted, then ignored, and cowardly violent acts are offered in return. The Palestinian people are being exploited by their own secular leadership, their masses are taught to hate their neighbor and they do not realize THEIR leaders are the cause of their hatred, anger, and frustration. Israel is a civilized, productive culture which has created prosperity within its borders. Palestine actually destorys its own internal assets, has no culturual or economic plan for future prosperity . . . They cannot see the forest for the trees . . . so their souless masses get mad and strike out like forgotten, fatherless children . . .
'Palestine' show the world some progress, some prosperity, some movement towards bettering your land. If you keep acting like you do, you will bring the World down on yourselves. Palestinians - STAND UP FOR YOUR CHILDREN. Fight those within your ranks that poison your childrens' hearts and minds. WAKE UP ! LIVE ! LOVE ! Fix your people's troubles - Do not wreck your neighbor's 'house' IF your 'house' is a mess - And it certainly is - I have witnessed 40 yrs of your nation doing nothing but making things worse for your people and your neighbor. You oppress your own people and they fall for it, generation after generation. And for what - A battered, culturaless sandbox you call home ?
You have been tricked into fighting 'others' for so long, that you now have NOTHING to respect or care for within your own borders.
If you could force Israel off their land - Then what ? What is your grand plan for your own people - Seems this is where your great 'quest' falls flat.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

David, California — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:46:01 GMT

Know the difference between a terrorist and a matyr: A matyr dies for his beliefs, a terrorists wants you to die for his beliefs. The palestinians would fare a whole lot better invoking Martin Luther Kings' style of civil disobediance.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Disgusted — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:46:14 GMT

Billy D asked "Where is the sad story of the family of the VICTIMS of this terrorists bombs?"

Watch the biased America media...Foxnews, CNN, take your pick. The American Media usually portrays the story from the Israeli point of view.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

shane — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:46:48 GMT

Everyone can point your fingers at any one you like and blame them for starting this crap. But we all know who going to lose and who the victor is. So why do people try to make human trash look normal. They kill civilians, and then use God and religion as a reason to commit murder, rape, & genocide. To me these people are the low of the lowest; they are lower than child molesters. These people are terrorists and so are people that let them use their religion to get support. Real Muslims need to weed out these imposters that hijack Islam. Till then every will label Islam as a terrorist supporter. So till then you will always be known as Islamic terrorist. To help out here some help on the definition of Terrorism, in the modern sense, is violence, the threat of violence, or other harmful acts committed for political or ideological goals. Most definitions of terrorism include only those acts which are intended to create fear (terror), are perpetrated for an ideological goal (as opposed to a lone attack), and deliberately target or disregard the safety of non-combatants (civilians). Many definitions also include only acts of unlawful violence.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Pamela S. — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:48:04 GMT

The author stands to profit from "knowing" his terrorist subjects so well. This story is just free advertising for him. I won't buy his book. Instead, I recommend Brigitte Gabriel's "Because They Hate." I have no sympathy for murdering terrorists. Israel always gets trashed in the media. How would you, as an American, like to have rockets exploding in your homes and schoolyards, suicide bombers in your restaurants and malls, the daily apprehensions of hostile fire from Islamofascists, and not have the world's approval, let alone support, to act in defense of your citizens? I don't want to see anyone die, but freedom-loving, democratic Israelis least of all.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

CFGOTTER, OREM UT — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:48:12 GMT

Tell me of a period of time when there has EVER been peace in the middle east except at the point of a gun, if you can call that peace. And don't equate peace with freedom. If you really wanted peace would you continue actions that kill your own people? This isn't even about religion on either side, although that is a good smokescreen, it is about power and money like everything else.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

chris b, kansas city, mo — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:51:35 GMT

Please! Terrorists are terrorists. This kid would have killed the author's own children had he the chance. Those who do not blow up kids on buses have the right to be outraged at those who do. Period. There's no gray area here.

Both sides of this conflict have engaged in unthinkable horrors. But, frankly, I'd be more inclined to empathize with the Palestinian cause if they directed their anger (peacefully) at the UN, who granted Israel its place on the globe. Israel being Israel is their UN-granted right.

However, as long as Palestinians blow up kids on buses, I'll side with Israel, regardless of the merits of an uprising. I say that knowing full well Israel has engaged in activities almost as appalling.

And by the way, any morality that abides by the law of terror, is by definition, immoral. That gives the world the right to shake their fingers at terrorists. So enough, please, with the "people are people" mantra. While we share the same biology, some humans blow up innocents and other humans don't.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

m.webb. m/ville — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:53:09 GMT

If some nut case went over the edge one day and took a bunch of kids hostage at mcdonalds (oh wait, that did happen) all of America would be screaming "shoot the bastard befor he hurts anymore innocent people" Whats the difference? He blew up innocent people. Destroyed families. Killed fathers and mothers just because they did not beleive like him. Please, if you dont want to be shoot, then dont point a gun. He was a coward and a muderer, plain and simple. No different than any other sick bastard that kills for the thrill of it.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

T. Smith — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:53:17 GMT

Countless people throughout time have had hardship, strife, and persecution. When you lose respect for life, you lose part of your soul as a people.

I see no evidence of genocide against the Palestinians, and the blame Israel gets is not fair. The Palestinians were treated poorly and tossed about by most mideast powers throughout history.

I am not Jewish, but if you want a future for your people, create peace and prosperity from within. Take what you have. Learn, prosper, give to the world community. Bombs accomplish nothing, and leave your people in fear.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Erik, Brookflield, Wisconsin — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:53:52 GMT

What a fascinating dichotomy between 2 brothers brought up in the same environment. Thanks Martin. I'm looking forward to the release of your book.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

leki, NASHVILLE TN — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:53:58 GMT

if you have not gone trough a war, if you were not forced to give up your rights to religion, to your freedom,your land and your life, if you have not lived years in fear of being killed, than you have no right to comment on what is right from wrong. i feel saddned by the things that are going on in the world, by the fact that so many innocent lives have to be lost, to what cause i ask? people life is far to precious, and may God judge those who take life from another.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Rob E — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:54:07 GMT

This conflict is without end, until all on both sides are dead. Each side sees things its own way, and neither is willing to change their view on it.

Whether you like it or not, the bottom line of this particular conflict comes from the fact that a defacto religious nation was set up on lands that other people were living on, with no regard or respect to the lives, wishes, and feelings of those being displaced.

People with the money and the power get to do what they want, while those without deal with the reprocussions.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

m.webb....m/ville — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:55:21 GMT

Remember how as young boys we would play army or cops and robers? Remember how as children we pretended to be the hero or even worse, the villian? These idiots are just living out a fantasy, a reason to kill innocent people. Murdering bastards.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Mark — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:58:05 GMT

Patriots of the War of Independence being called "terrorists" is not the same thing as calling men and women like this kid a "terrorist"...let's face it, our revolutionaries faced soldiers and fought the government in all it forms...these muslim terrorists are blowing up women, kids in schools, unsuspecting civilians in clubs and marketplaces...they are not taking on soldiers. That is a big difference btw. the two, and one such reason why these muslim extremists are rightfully called terrorists.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Donald Midkiff, New Orleans, LA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:58:07 GMT

Whenever a journalist writes a piece as well as this, it makes us all reflect on the loss to everyone caused by this conflict. Unfortunately, the end of the story is the logical outcome of the wider conflict, with both Arab and Jew, like two brothers, lying next to each other in the cold darkness of death. What a waste.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Otruth — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:58:52 GMT

I do not understand the Isreali's sense of justice in light of their recent past. Murdered, robbed and victimized by the Germans. Then doing the same thing to the Palestinians. Of course the Palestinians hate them and want Isreal destroyed. If the Isrealis wanted peace and prosperity, even as a minority, could they not achieve these things like other ethnic groups in the US have? Embrace all the inhabitants of the land as citizens, give Isreal a new name, return stolen properties to their rightful owners and make it a democracy. Be like King Soloman wise and just not like Pharoh the oppressor.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

CdrMac — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:59:41 GMT

People are nice, their politics sometimes not. When a group resorts to indiscriminate killing to make their point they become common murderers... no matter how nice their family is or their "good" intentions. For those people nothing will stop them except a bullet in the head. If that group continues to exhibit that behavior over time they do nothing but put their own families at risk through actions deemed necessary by those being terrorized. It's a shame to be sure, but that's the way it is and always has been through history. This fact will not change no matter how thick the "rose-colored" glasses you wear. Terrorist give no quarter and expect the same in their enemy. The only way to deal with terrorists is to kill them.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Bob Smith, Seattle Washington — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:00:41 GMT

Freedom fighter? They have freedom. They used their freedom to elect Hamas into power. They use their freedom to send rockets into Isreal. They use to freedom to kill others rather than trying to find solutions and peace. All blame is not on them. Isreal and zelots within Isreal share responsibility for seeking peace and where there is a will, there will be peace. The truth is that neither side truly wants peace. With peace, there would be no reason for the people who currently have power to remain. Their corruption would be seen for what it truely is.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

M.Miller, AR — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:00:54 GMT

While this is a wonderful piece of journalism, the context is terribly painful to read. Regardless of the cause, the race, the religion, it is the story of two brothers who saw different ways to accomplish their passions in life. One chose hope for the future and set about to make changes happen, and one chose to inflict pain, suffering and unwarranted death on others and reaped it. I hope and pray the brother who chose life will succeed and his actions with bring forth more young men who chose to overcome the need to chose death. This actually gives me hope that two men from the same parents made different choices because many times we hear that 'they don't have any hope or choice because of their heritage and surroundings.' Obviously, they do have a choice and we should all pray that they, as well as all of us, make the right ones. Think about ALL the unnecessary deaths when you go to Vote this Year!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Al R. , LaPorte, Tx. — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:01:23 GMT

There are at least three differences for the nonsense in the middle east and it all comes down to jelousy. First, Abraham had two sons. one he loved and the other he abandoned. Second, it's the Bible, either you believe what it says or you fight to see which son regains the inheritants. Third, it's about Jesus Christ, either you believe he is the son of God and follow his example for loving each other as brother and sister or you are as ignorant as the individuals that hung him on a cross to die. I've read my Bible from cover to cover three times in the past three years and one thing that sticks in my mind aside from the fact that I am totally convinced that Jesus will hold each of us responsible for our sin, (in this case,the murder of his children), it's what God directed Moses in the book of Deuteronomy chapter twelve, verse thirty-one,"You must not worship the Lord your God in their way because in worshipping their gods, they do all kinds of detestable things the Lord hates. They even burn their sons and daughters in the fire as sacrifices to their gods." If I were a muslim, I would hang my head in shame to think this is what God would have me do to win my cause. Regardless of religion, what a waste of something more precious than someone else' idea to live and fight another day, just as long as they aren't the one wearing the bomb vest.
How brave is that? Actually, it's really pretty stupid. I've gone to school with students from Muslim background. I almost thought you were smarter than that. Shows you how much I know.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Jim Mills — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:01:54 GMT

Martin. Martin. Martin. You seem to have lost your sense of reality. People who kill other people are dangerous to all of us. Period. They are murderers. Period.
You been in news too long.
You are jaded.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

IC — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:02:25 GMT

As you stated, a terrorist to one and a freedom fighter to another. When will Israel realize that the road to peace is not through bombardments of Palestinian lands like Gaza. Collective punishment will create more followers of people like Ahmed.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Daniel Watkins, Centerville, Tennessee — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:02:37 GMT

Mr. Fletcher, How many innocent children died at this terrorists hands while you were milking the story for glory and money? You knew where the terrorists were, you knew what they were doing, yet you did nothing to stop the killing. The more I watch and read the news the more it makes me sick at how you manipulate tragedy for your own gains. In my opinion you are just as much a terrorist as those in your story and they were terrorists of the worst kind. Thank God they finally got him.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Vaj, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:04:15 GMT

I will be happy to know if you write something about American terrorists fighting for oil in Iraq, and peace of land in Afganistan (who by the way in your country, are branded defenders of freedom ). Visit some american terrorist arms camps, and write about them also. That will be nice!!!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Paul Smyth — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:04:32 GMT

Many of your messages come from people who do not distinguish between a guerrilla fighter and a terrorist. Unless this is clearly established the discussion remains sterile.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Allan, Aberdeen, Scotland — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:08:00 GMT

Lets be honest, Israel are the real terrosits, they have got no resepct for anything that doesnt fit into its agenda ! Guys like Ahmed are freedom fighters, In all wars innocent people get killed, thats just the way it is. This is from a white Scottish guy that has been to Israel and understand the crazed mentality of the Israelis, the fucking Americans ones are the even worse, they aint got a fuckign clue !!! God bless.......

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Ali M, NY, NY — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:10:14 GMT

Its an amazing story, thank you for helping us distinguish between the terrorists and the freedom fighters.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

chris b, kansas city, mo — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:10:54 GMT

I think some responders who are likeing terrorism with the American revolution need to quickly procure a history book and a dictionary. The American revolutionaries did not send rockets indisciminately into Great Britain. They did not kill British babies. They did not set fire to British schoolhouses. No British non-combatants were present in our conflict - only soldiers and their support staffs.

That war was fought on American soil against the only people they sent - British soldiers.

The word you're looking for is not "terrorsit" -it's "guerilla." Yes, American revolutionaries were guerillas. But, regardless of their military tactics, the American forces fought only the British forces. It was quite difficult to attack British interests and citizenry since they were on a different continent than the one where the fighting was taking place.

They did, however, commit "atrocities" (liberally defined) against fellow Americans who were British sympathizers. But this was not done en masse, nor was it sanctioned by the Continental Congress, nor did it have even moderately popular appeal among the revolutionaries.

I'd say our education system might need a bit of a tweaking.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Al Schweitzer, SFO, CA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:11:07 GMT

Just sadness, at another victim, another wasted life, in a long and unending saga of ceaseless violence.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:11:42 GMT

I do have to wonder why these "Palestinians" refuse to talk or understand how to respectfully neogtiate with Israel. Have you listen to or read anything that refers to Israel? It often states things like "Zionist Agressors" and "Imperiouslists" among other things. I guess if they are not in charge, then everyone else is to blame.

Have any of the these "Palestinians" done anything with their land? Many of them have not. Have these people been accepted by their Arab cousins? They had the chance to live within Israel in 1948. They refused and many listened to their Arab cousins when they were told that the Jews would be pushed into the sea and you can take the land.

How can Hamas justify having a television show for children that talks about martyrdom. Children are supposed to be happy and play with toys. When a character that looks like Mickey Mouse says that it is okay to hate Jews and kill them; how should the Israelis react to that? It is a Jewish state (the only place where Jews are currently the majority; where else can Jews be somewhat safe?) that has the rule of law. How many times have we heard about corruption being common place in the Arab world?

To Jack Olsen: When the Jews of the land (called Palestine because of the Philastines when the Romans had it with the Jews and stopped calling the land Judea) bombed the King David Hotel, they called first to let them know about the bomb was coming. How many Arab murder-bombers call first saying that they are going to kill CIVILIANS? The King David Hotel was housing British soldiers and therefore was a military target. When susicide bombers go into Israel, where do they go first? They go to where people, civilians, congregate to maximize the damage.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Mark Helbraun Hackensack, NJ — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:12:44 GMT

There is no moral equivalance between a murderer who specifically targets civilians, and a soldier who seeks to kill documented (self-admitted)murderers before they have a chance to do it again. Martin Fletcher and his ilk, in the interest of "getting the story" routinely romanticize those killers because the killers were nice to them (they were "sources").What a sick mentality when you can feel befriended by men who are proud of blowing up women and children. There is no grievance in a civilized society that is seen as justification for such acts of cruelty. Mr. Fletcher, for his own interests, is glorifying an uncivil society. How morally bankrupt.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Carol Schaeffer, Columbia, SC — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:12:45 GMT

Jason Bradcell and Ron Solomson say it all.
Two wrongs dont make a right.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Beck, Houston, TX — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:13:57 GMT

"Why cannot BOTH sides learn that the answer to all this violence is Sharing?"

Ummm, share what? This isn't exactly a fight for simple land and property. I fail to see the relevance, if fighting over ideals then there is nothing for them to share in order to stop fighting. It helps to know what they're fighting over before attempting to declare solutions. I hear this so often, we'll all stop fighting if we learn to share, but conflict's purpose is rarely solely property.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Arthur, Detroit, MI — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:15:36 GMT

While interesting, a more incisive analysis would be more interesting. Why did this young man think that it was OK to kill non-combatants? Children? Is it because for the last 60 years the arabic authorities have filled the heads of the young in the region with the idea that jews are less than human and deserving of death? Those who compare this to Ireland, or the US' own war for independence have got it wrong. There, in both cases, the targets of the "insurgents" were the British army-viewed as an occupying force. NOT kids on buses going to school. Not husbands and wives at their wedding ceremonies. There IS a difference.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Sam Snead, Boca, Fl — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:16:12 GMT

All this confusion over a description. A snake is a snake. If you don't kill it, it will bite you eventually.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Doug Twin Falls, Idaho — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:18:27 GMT

Israel is the true terrorist nation of the world. The Zionist have infiltrated the American government and are now calling the shots. The war on terror is a sham, a cover for Israel's ethnic cleansing. When Israel is dismantled and the Zionist are taught to live with others in peace, we will have peace.
Thank you for a great story Martin.
GOD help Palestine!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

SMC, V'liet, NY — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:19:06 GMT

It is definately a sad story, a young man corrupted into a mad-mass-murder. But what's even sadder is their way of thinking. Allah is not going to reward those killing his children (as with any God.) Jesus has permitted killings as well, but just as Allah, our God wants us to be peace-loving humans who love our world and our neighbors. We are to worship our bodies not destroy them, broaden our perspectives not limit them, love not hate, live not kill. The terrist claim that they kill in the name of Allah, which is just wrong. Allah did not tell them to go out and kill his children. The terrorist are sick, and mentally-distorted in this belief. Maybe they should actually sit down and read the Karan before they go on killing sprees. And if they can't understand the meaning behind the words, then maybe they should take the time to ponder it, before taking action. Their illnesses are masked by their "so-called" beliefs, and officials are allowing it.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Andre, Sacto, CA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:19:07 GMT

They fought for their lands and their families. They fought and died in their own homes. They are freedom fighters.

To call them terrorist is just screeching right-wing propaganda. I doubt these people would be fighting if they had secure homes. Just like anyone else. Duh. Its not a hard concept to understand people.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Ann, Colorado — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:19:43 GMT

It is sad when anyone has to die. But what is the Palestiniam objective? Do they want peace or simply to rid the world of Jews/Israeli's? If peace were their objective than they would choose life, negotiating with the Israeli's. If their objective is the destruction of the Jewish state/people, then they will blow themselves up not caring about the innocent that they murder.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Jim, Taos, NM — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:21:25 GMT

I have to wonder why an American pilot who drops a bomb on people in Iraq or Afganistan is not considered a murderous terrorist while a Palestinian who bombs people in Israel is considered a murderous terrorist.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Michael — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:22:30 GMT

Both sides need to comes to terms with the fact that there will NEVER be peace without two states. Unless it comes down to who cant outbreed whom. Sounds like a certain revanchist extremist group here in America...

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

KB, Naples, FL — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:22:32 GMT

Religion (def) Manmade, man boasting to God what he can do for him. Man reaching to God, and says look at me, what I can do for you. Idol worship, rituals

Religious Legalism (def) Man binding man to serve mans purpose not Gods.

Sin (def) rebellion, rebellious in spiritual nature, wicked, for we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Ephesians 6:12

Christian (def) should be intimate with the Lord spiritually. Not judging of his fellow man. (He who has not sinned cast the first stone). Loves the sinner, but hates the sin. Forgiving. Has sinned, but spiritually saved. Saved spiritually through Christ only. Is responsible/accountable for the outcome of own sin. Should liberally inform his/her fellow man about salvation and the Lord's forgiveness.

Forgiven/forgiveness (def) I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth. Luke 15:7&10

False Christian/Anti-Christ (def) wolf in sheep’s clothing. Seeks to devour and prey upon fellow man, mislead and misguide, may seem he/she as righteous

Holy Spirit/Ghost (def) (Hebrews 3:7) Wherefore as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice, (1John 5:7) For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one (Titus 3:5) Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; (2Timothy 1:14) That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us. (2Corinthians 6:6) By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, (1Corinthians 2:13) which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

My Brothers and Sisters- I pray, and hope I see you all in Heaven; hell was created for the adversary and not us

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

ER, Troy, NY — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:23:37 GMT

What they are fighting for was put into them by their own fathers and countrymen. The rationale, the Israelis took their land and are the enemy. The truth, the UN gave Jews the land after WWII. The conspiracy between Hitler and the Grand Mufti to kill all the jews was never laid bare by the trials at Nuremburg and to this day the conspirators are unpunished. A spit of land for the atrocities committed is at the least fair but not without recognition of the Palestinians. A denial of sorts of the hate they share which led to the Holocaust. Even the Germans renounce theat hate now but Palestinians are unable to see the light and swallow a bit of pride in order that peace be finally achieved in the region. Another screwup by the UN for not following through in fairly compensating the displaced. It will be blood money now, too late and likely denied by those who are victims of this fight for justice.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

FM — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:24:49 GMT

Palestinians are not engaged in terrorism but in a guerilla warfare against a modern army with advanced weaponry. Thanks Paul Smyth for making the distiction clear for us readers. "the soldiers went into Ahmed's room, where he was lying on the ground. They spoke to him and then, they killed him." - this is very hard to read.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

m.f., Cleveland, Ohio — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:25:53 GMT

I have spent the past 6 years studying the Quran, trying to understand how a religion of peace could possibly support the killing of innonence. Looking for the place in the Quran where it says suicide is nobel....but it's just not there. This was yet another of Islam's youth, deceived by a group of evil murderers into sacrificing his life.

There is no Jihad.....there is only a handful of evil cowardly murderers, hiding behind women and children because they are too afraid to fight themselves, deceiving Muslim youth into fighting their battles for them! They wave the Quran but there is nothing in the Quran that justifies their murderous actions!

It is time for Muslims worldwide to stand up for justice and humanity, and help rid us of this evil that plagues our world today! There is no Jihad!!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

karen, miami florida — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:26:22 GMT

Did you ask these young men whether they accept Israel's right to exist?? Sadly, their answer would be no, and therefore Israel has no choice but to defend itself and try to eliminate these TERRORISTS. When Israel attacks, they try to minimize civilian casualties, when the suicide bombers (sent by these men!) attack in Israel, they choose sites to maximize cilvian casualities! I would also remind you that these same "Freedom Fighters" were CELEBRATING on the streets on 9/11!!

Look what these Islamic extremists are doing to EACH OTHER in Iraq and elsewhere. If this is how they treat each other, how do you think they will treat the rest of the world - the Infidels, as they call us. Sadly, as Golda Mier said, there will only be peace when these individuals learn to love their children more than they hate us - and they haven't arrived there yet!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

bill jones — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:27:32 GMT

Very brave freedom fighters i agree i am an american disgusted by all the us taxpayers $ to kill these arabs who want the occupation ended and their land back isreal is the outlaw, delusional "nation" with 200 nukes ready to destroy the world for their delusions

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Shadab, Chicago, IL — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:28:43 GMT

People keep addressing Israelis as innocent bystanders who did nothing to anger the Palestenians.

The state of Israel is based on occupation, its the only country that has dispaced its original inhabitants in our recent history. How would you feel if I kicked you out to the streets from your house and made it mine because of a divine order. Wouldn't you feel like doing something about it yourself as the cops are hand in hand in this. Israelis have soldiers and advance weaponry from US and Europe to do the dirty job. The Palestenians did not commit the Holocaust against Jews, so why should they pay the price of biggest European crime.

Stop the settlements and remove the illegal settlements and you'll see the Palestenians will stop blowing themselves up. Yes, the settlements or the displacing of Palestenian families is still happening.

When a new Jewish family (a lot from eastern europe) moves in to Palestine with their kids they are kicking out another family with kids from their ancestral home. I dont consider these people inoccent or victims. In fact they are endengering their kids knowingly.

Since Sep of 2000 to Feb 2006 approximately 892 Palestenians children and 113 Israeli kids have died due to this conflict. Check Wikepedia for this info

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Keith, Richmond, VA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:29:20 GMT

Great story! I just love the comments on this. I can see why we are so involved in our own little secured minds spitting out kill or be kill, reap what we sow, kill all the zionist pigs, all muslims need to unite. If any one of the people reading this story who made a comment would stop and read the writing on the wall it just might open their feeble minds to all kinds of posibilities. Where would Israel go if they just gave in and left? What would Palestine or Hamas do if they were not there to blame for their pligh? Remember the story said that the young terrorist/freedom fighter was abandon by his own Government. My guess is, they realized that it was pointless to continue to fight for a cause that has been taken so far off course that no ones know the real reason for it in the first place. Whatever your religion is whether it be Christian, Muslim, Jew, Catholic, Atheist, or other the one thing we all have in common is that we are human beings and we make mistakes. I'm sad that his life was taken the way it was however, I'm also thankful that his life will not be part of any more killings, terrorist or freedom fighter.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Li, Woodbury, MN — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:31:33 GMT

Peace...is what every body aspires for, and yet it seems that no one is working for it. Peace cannot exist without mutual respect, and treat one another with dignity. Israeli, Arabs, Greeks, Turks, Italian, so forth and so on, are all Mediteraneans...all brotheers and sisters sharing the same land.

Peace starts from within. One can never make peace with anger, hatred, inconsideration. The recipe of Peace is as follow:
a whole respect, a total love, a slice of tolerance, 3 doses of care, a complete will to win without having the other to lose...blend into a harmonious society where there're hope all, safety me and security for you, and a piece of bread in every mouth...sunshine to warm you and me, rain to grow crops for mankind.

There's no heroism in killing, no justification nor excuse for destruction...we can all live in peace and prosper together in harmony with our difference and our plus.

Stop hatred, cease raging war against one another; start focusing on building a better world for all. Yes, it's a possibility...and we can make it a realilty. Oil will soon be drained out, and the sea will rise...and the Sahara will widen if we do nothing at all but killing each-other. Instead of racing into weaponery, we should build water pipelines from the Mediteranean Sea to the inner land of the Sahara...create many lakes there where life will flourish...and the Sahara will become once again inhabitable.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Jaime — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:34:31 GMT

Good article. But Please,

A terrorist is a terorist no matter how you color it. I use the word "IT", because terrorists are sub-human. Regardless of their agendas, or their plights. Many on this blog use the suffering of arabs and muslims as an excuse to "defend" their actions. In that case, anyone who has been wronged in the past, stolen from, assaulted, cheated, made fun of, humiliated, enslaved, would have the right to commit unadulterated murder by suicide or bombing. The latter is a form of "war" or "revenge" used by cowards, because the killing and maiming is not uni-directed. It is dispersed, taking with it innocents and guilty, women elderly and children, civilians and military, AND IT HAS BECOME THE CALLING CARD OF MUSLIM TERRORISTS FOR MANY YEARS NOW.
SOMEONE IN THE MUSLIM WORLD: PLEASE SOMEONE-TELL THESE COWARDS THAT KILLING THEMSELVES TO KILL OTHERS WILL NOT MAKE THEM MARTYRS.
A Martyr is he or she who suffers great pains or dies So that others MAY live. Jesus was a martyr. Suicide bombers are not. neither are the cowards sitting in a cave who are too yellow to do it themselves, rather they tell gullible young men or women to do it in the name of islam. This is the ultimate example of cowardice.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Freedom Lover, Tejas — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:35:53 GMT

To all people who deny the phrase "Freedom Fighters". Here in america the colonists in the 1700's decided that they would not be ruled by a foreign government and retaliated. That retaliation was in the form of gorrila war fair(a form of fighting that was disdained by the british.) The colonists had to fight that way because of the restrictions on the formation of large militia groups and lack of formal fighting skills. They were considered terrorists by many people in their days, including loyalists. Now that America is free and a proud prosperious nation our history shows that we were born of an honorable people who fought galantly for our freedom. Had we lost that war history would have written George Washington as a terrorist and Benedict Arnold as a hero.
I am proud that the colonists had the courage to fight for this country's freedom. Winning the war was worth the cost of lives. We have to understand that when people are oppressed and restricted, they resort to fighting in ways that may not be palatable to others.
Walk a mile in a man's shoe, and try to ignore his pain.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

JAIme, Ft Myers, Fl — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:38:16 GMT

Mr "A Muslim" atated that When Saddam invaded Kuwait, the entire arab world united to put him in his place. Ha ha ha. That is laughable. You mean The united states with the only help provided by countries such as Bahrain and Qatar to allow flyovers? With the trillions and trillions of dollars, and so called billions of men that all muslim countries have you couldnt do it without the US intervening? HA ha.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

haus Richmond hill, Canada — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:39:44 GMT

I feel sorry for palestinians since the 1950's and when the state of Israel was created by the UN these people have been getting kicked off their properties and there has been illegal israely settlements built on these lands or their homes given to israely families these people have no other option but to blow themselves up because ther rest of the world other than Syria, Iran and Lybia is not listening to their calls for help and the israely government just keeps on building new israely settlements on their land. Maybe it's time we started listening to the Palestinian as one human to another and put a stop to any new settlement in PALESTINE and also put a stop to the israely army being in that country.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Zihark — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:40:34 GMT

It is good to realize that the enemy consists of actual human beings, not unlike ourselves. We should never forget that when a life is taken, there was someone on the other end of the gun, and that they had a story, a soul, and a purpose in living. Hatred will only hurt people in the long run when people forget any real purpose in fighting and end up killing for the sake of killing. That said, nations and people cannot afford the luxury of standing idly by while a potential foe attempts to destroy a group through violence. Sympathy must be balanced with justice. Israel should not be expected to abandon military actions against terror because it threatens their nation. We feel pity for the Palestinians and their situation, but suicide bombs are not an acceptable outlet for their frustration.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Stephen Boyd — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:41:31 GMT

This is a message to both sides and to all. We do not own the land that everyone fights over; we are only its caretakers, and a poor job we are making of that. It is sad when we all just can't live and let live, to respect each other’s right to live. Why can't they just share the land, why does it have to be either Arabs or Jews?

Both sides are fighting a lost cause, neither side will ever win until one side or the other is wiped off the face of the earth, and if that ever happens it will be a sad day for human kind.

To all you Palestinians, you are killing yourselves and the innocents for nothing, your death only strengthens Israel’s resolve to protect itself from harm and to exist, and alienating yourselves from the rest of the world. You are only adding to the fire and accomplishing nothing. Give up your arms, and I'm sure Israel will do what is right and in its best interest; give you the land you all seek and deserve. Wouldn't you rather live in peace alongside the Jews then give up your sons and daughters to endless senseless violence?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

John, Boston, MA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:43:15 GMT

It's easy to call people cowards for being suicide bombers and kililng "innocent" people when your army has the resources to squash its opponents like insects. Sorry, but truth be told, it takes a tremendous amount of courage to blow yourself up for your beliefs. This message is sent by an American as a big "shup up already" to those Americans who so easily point the finger as if they know anything about this particular conflict. Just shut up, please.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

john doe — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:45:32 GMT

No peace without freedom

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

A neutral reader from Arizona — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:45:58 GMT

I always wonder who makes the money and builds power behind these wars that send the young ones, the easy to brainwash, to die in teh name of gods, land, etc. The reason that peace is so fragile and war prevails, it's simple. It's the best business of the big corporations. They don't kill each other with rocks, they use expensive guns and materials that somebody sells. So let's get used to reality.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

the educator — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:47:22 GMT

The one thing that seems to be lost on most people, is the fact that Israel was attacked by multiple countries on almost all sides in 1967. They were very lucky to repel such an attack, and expanded their borders as a result. They needed more warning for the next time they would be attacked. I feel the real blame lies with the rest of the bordering Arab countries refusal to take in and assimilate the palestinians,(their muslim brothers).
Furthermore, if you can find one mention in the quran of the word jerusalem, you would be the first.
Finally if we are to discuss this subject it would be nice if we could start with facts instead of anti-semitism, which has risen to pre WWII levels.
God help us all!!!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

ld — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:47:31 GMT

It was said by (Spiral Triangle)that "terrorist is a terrorist is a terrorist", with this I concure! I dont know if you (Martin Fletcher)would still have the same sympathetic tone towords Ahmed and his brother Alaa (wich you did make reference to but stopped) if they had been successful at blowing up a bus that one of your children were riding on and killed one of them along with other innocent people, would you?

I think that terrosism is the worst evil that can be thrust upon any society, as it destroys the very foundation that make up the human society and human being in general. The is NO excuse for terroism, NONE! If a person or group has an issue with another person, group or in this case with another government, that person with the issue needs to take thier issue up with the paticular govt that they hate, not the innocent people that are under that paticular governments control, or domain. People in any society should be able to walk, work, drive a car or ride in a bus without fear! That does include the people of Gaza by the way!People should not have to fear that just because they may be going to get some food for thier children or going to or from school that they may be blown up.

Alaa and Ahmed were those (and Alaa still is) terrorists that blew people up, women, children, men, regardless of race or gender. People that they didnt even know, didnt care to know. They didnt care if the woman that they blew up in one of these buses was carring her 2 month old baby to a doctors visit who hadnt done anthing to anyone ever, except look at her mother with loving eyes! Alaa and Ahmed killed people using other people to carry the bombs that they(Alaa and Ahmed) built and blow themselves up in the process, by my thought because they(Alaa and Ahmed) were too frightened to do it themselves, and because they didnt want to die for thier land, but it was ok for others to carry this out and give thier lives for Alaa and Ahmed's land! Alaa and Ahmed killed how many innocent people, for what cause, land?

By no means do I believe that Isreal or any other country should engage in the same terroristic behavior as people like Alaa and Ahmed. Isreal is fighting for the same cause as Alaa and Ahmed, land and survival. Since mankind walked the planet, we as a species have engaged in countless wars over land, and the right to exist. But up until the recent past, we have not resorted to terrorism as a means to fight our battles. And I do believe that people like Osama bin Laden, Alaa and Ahmed, along with coplete govt's such as Iran, maybe Isreal are guilty of the worst, most unspeakable crimes against humanity and the people that carry out these loathsome, evil, cowardly acts will rot in any Gods hell and suffer the worst eterninty that can be givin out by God, Allah, Jesus, whatever name you wish to give to your personal maker.

Alaa and Ahmed are and were terrorists, no more and no less. They DESERVED what they got, death. And what the survivor(Alaa) got is what his brother got, death. And by almost anyones standards, Ahmed got off easy as did his brother! They desrved to not know who was killing them or why they were being blown up like they did to thier victoms!

This was a very good article, but I think you were blinded a little(maybe a-lot) by a couple of young charasmatic kids who told you only thier version of the why's, and you didnt see the results of thier actions due to the bond that you shared.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

a hopeful Muslim — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:52:15 GMT

It has almost 60 years since the terrible events of the holocaust and what happened to the six million Jews who died. Ironically the same tactics that the Nazi used on them they are perpetrating against the Palestinians. We need to stop the atrocities from both sides and come to fair and equitable land sharing. Let peace and love prosper in the HOLY LAND.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Will Stephenson, Brooklyn, New York — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:52:45 GMT

This terrorist-freedom fighter bull is from the book of fools. What freedom do terrorists give to whom? This is convenient drivel to rationalize, excuse, and mask modern-day religious fanatical murder. The religious terrorist unreasoning and irrational. He must must be resisted and liquidated.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

susan doe, WI — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:54:05 GMT

It's true that the American gov't went to great length to get Kuwait. What do the Isrealies have that America wants? Americans do enjoy many freedoms, still, there was great costs for those freedoms-my whole race was nearly anhialated. I find that when there's something America wants, America will do much to get it. Not unlike a terrorist. On the other hand, I live in a country where I can say things like this without being thrown in prison or killed. Well, I could be killed any day, any where.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Mindchild — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:55:16 GMT

When you label people it shows a lack of understanding on your part. The issue of terrorist or freedom fighter all depends on which point of view your looking at. If some country came to the US and invaded it, most people would fight back. Are you a freedom fighter or a terrorist then?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

joel martinez,shanghai,china — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:55:24 GMT

no one will call you a terrorist if you're not terrorizing your neighbor,so what is a freedon fighter means?does it means"to terrorize"

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

mARY — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:59:34 GMT

I'm sure George Bush should be considered a "terrorist" too - considering all the Iraqis he killed...(THE ONES THEY DON'T REPORT ABOUT) Thanks for a FAIR piece of reporting. Too often since 9/11 the media has only shown one side of the story. God (or whoever you pray to) bless us all

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

bc Indiana — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:01:06 GMT

Mr. Fletcher,

All your moral relativism aside you seem to miss the point that, as has been seen with the IRA in Ireland, young Palestinian men can be seduced by the belief that the end justifies the means..... and so, perfectly nice people can be persuaded to wage war on the innocent.

At the point this individual starts planting bombs your fine moral distinctions hold no value.

Once a dog acquires rabies he becomes a mad dog... what he was before is irrelevant.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Moe, minneapolise,mn — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:06:11 GMT

Give them jet fighters and state of the art tanks and 1000 kilo bombs and I promise you they will not blow them self’s up. You call them terrorists, but they are freedom fighters. The number of Israeli children killed in comparison to Palestinian children killed by Israelis soldiers is staggering. Just because they are solders does not mean that they are not terrorist. When you drop 1000 kilo bomb on a building that has hundreds of civilians to kill one or two freedom fighters, that is not killing without any regards to human life. The number of Palestinian civilians that are killed by Israeli army is thousands more that the Israeli civilians killed by freedom fighters. Simply get educated on the facts, stop listening to the story from one side and you will be able to see the truth of what it is, Israelis are the problem get out of all the land occupied during 1967 war, make Jerusalem a city for all with no restriction then Palestinians will be able to live in peace next to Jews. Other than that as long as there is occupation there will be freedom fighters and there will be no peace.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

london — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:07:42 GMT

over 30 palestinians were killed by IDF last week.

Were they all terrorists?

Did any media give a mention to their deaths.

Is it only terrorism when the innocents on one side are killed or do different rules apply to the other side?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

John NEW YORK — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:07:44 GMT

AHMED IS A FREEDOM FIGHTER

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

STOP THE ISRAELI TERRORISTS Tampa, Florida — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:08:13 GMT

Israelis are the biggest "terrorists" in the world. Because it is state-sponsored makes it all the more reprehensible. It sickens me that our great nation, the USA, continues to support these murderous, genocidal actions. We should withdraw all monetary and military support for the rogue, terrorist state of Israel. If the surrounding Arab countries blast Israel into the Mediterranean, justice would be served. And the last time I checked, Israel is NOT the 51st state.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Smith, Milwaukee, WI — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:09:02 GMT

Two things cause war, greed/selfishness and arrogance/ignorance. Every group/race/religion etc. wants to be the decider of who gets what, when, where and how. All groups etc. are afraid of poverty, and no group is willing to trust another group with their economic future. The greatest war we humans fight is the war against our own greed and arrogance. Think, and be honest with yourself.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

John Marchese — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:12:51 GMT

The spilling of innocent blood is not forgivable according to God, he will decide who is a terrorist, he knows the intent of the heart.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

John P Cinn NJ — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:16:52 GMT

If I hear one more person say that Muslim is the religion of peace I am going to scream. All these people know is fighting and war. There is no way to change their ideals since they have been enforced since birth. What are they expecting???...After they blow up hundreds of innocent people, the rest of the world is supposed to say 'Oh, now I see your point'...LOL...Let them all burn in the afterlife.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Khalid, Jeddah KSA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:18:45 GMT

If Ahmed was capable of hitting hard targets, military bases, command centers etc, believe me he wouldn't bother with the soft targets like restaurants and bus stops, and he wont be called a terrorist. If Ahmed was equiped with F16 Jet fighter or an aparche, he definetly would have gone for harder targets...and nobody would dare call him a terrorist. think.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Max Headroom, Atlanta, Ga. — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:19:26 GMT

Anyone not feeling compassion for the people mentioned in this article, you are the problem. But then, so are the people mentioned in this article.

The day you feel the same sense of compassion for what you today consider being your worst enemy as you would your most beloved, you are the solution.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Tamur Haq, New York, New York — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:20:17 GMT

The only reason you're calling him a terrorist is because he did not have the official (recognized) political cover to carry out his activities against the enemies of his home, his people and his land. With a political cover an act of violence is a war to 'liberate' Iraq, to bomb complete civilian colonies in Lebanon aimed at eradicating Hizbullah.
Will the media (including yourself as a writer) continue to hustle forth and ignore the condemning evidence piling up against the Liberators of this world?; "In a damning report, the Center for Public Integrity found "935 false statements by eight top administration officials that mentioned Iraq's possession of weapons of mass destruction, or links to Al-Qaeda, on at least 532 separate occasions."
Isn't it your responsibility as a writer to bring all of this to a better light?.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Said, Maryland — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:26:27 GMT

Never try to understand the mind of a people who are oppressed. NEVER. You cannot think like them and cannot assume their actions.
You call a man's wife a name and he punches you in the gut.
You punch his wife and he punches you until the police show up. We accept his rage because we feel he must have just snapped and "i would have done the same".
You sleep with a mans wife and (up until recently) he can legally kill you if he catches you in the act (heat of passion law... look it up).
You take a man and take away his ability to provide for his family, his ability to practice religion, his ability to work and make money, his ability to have running water, clothes, and food.
Then once you remove all of that... u take away is ability to sleep at night for fear of missiles crashing through his roof. You take away his ability to attend a friday prayer for his religion. You take away his healthcare and medicines from reaching him. You then slowly kill off every part of his family. First his brothers and sisters... then his wife... then his children.
You take away his smile and his devine happyness. You remove all emotion from this man.
You sit this man in a room, empty, no food... hot and starving. Nobody talks to this man...

This man searches through rubble only to find the missle fragments stamped with USA and ISRAEL.
This man buries his entire family and goes back to that room... alone.

It is at that very moment we cannot understand or put ourselves in his shoes no matter how hard we try.

Unless you ARE that man then think deeply of your postings on this site. We have lost people in our lives and we have struggled and had ups and downs but have you ever BEEN THAT MAN IN THAT ROOM WITH LITERALLY NOTHING TO LIVE WITH BUT TIME TO LET YOUR MIND WONDER INTO THE FEELINGS OF "WHY?"

I doubt any of us have ever been him.

God Bless

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Canuck — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:27:06 GMT

Vaj,

Your opinion certainly doesn't represent the views of most Canadians.

Soldiers in uniform don't hide behind the civilian population and target innocents to cause political instability.

Don't forget your freedom to say what you just said is ensured by Canadians fighting religious facism in Afghanistan.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Bill M, OKC, Oklahoma — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:33:47 GMT

It’s a sad story and there are always sad stories on both sides.

But in all truth, Palestinians brought all of this upon themselves. They invited the devil into their home when they supported the PLO. They support Hamas and Fatah, both of which are nothing more than terrorists with a new name. It will only end when they support themselves as the “The Palestinian People” and throw out Hamas, Fatah, PLO and Al-Qaida out. For thousands of years Arabs have been slaves to sheiks, dictators and kings. That will only change when they forget the past and decide what they want to be in the future. What will their children be, engineers, teachers, and scientists or mass murders? Will their children ever stand on another world and marvel at what God has made for them?

I can never understand how a parent will allow their children to sell their souls to the devil. Every single martyr that kills innocent women and children will rot in hell because God/Allah gave them the opportunity in life to choose, follow God’s law and don’t kill your brothers and sisters or take one life and condemn your soul to hell. To those sons that want to be martyr’s, you disrespect God, your parents, your family and your people when you take the easy road in life and kill innocents. Those who choose to respect life, not pick up a gun, use their minds to bring peace and happiness to those around them and pass the wisdom of their parents to their children are true children of God.

Today’s story of how Palestinians blew up a wall so they could flood into another country just shows how low they have sank. They have no respect for any border, country or any people, Arab or otherwise. They wonder why Kuwait was saved and no one comes to help them. Kuwaitis never supported terrorism and the killing of innocent people. Kuwaitis are a modern civil people and any modern law abiding civil people can expect the world to help them in their time of need. Palestinians are supported by all the countries around them, food, clothing, electronics and electricity. Rather than acknowledging that support given to them each and every day, they turn and bite the hands that help them every single everyday. You knock down a wall and place demands on your neighbors and your neighbors look at you and think your pathetic and fear being infested with your hatred of everyone and everything.

You are lost and have been from the day you danced in the streets with the devil to celebrate the death of innocents. You were lost the day you allowed other Arab countries to sacrifice you over a religious hatred because they were too cowardly to face themselves. You will only be free when you throw off the shackles of history and choose your destiny, not for yourself, but for your children’s children.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

John Galt, Portland, OR — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:34:39 GMT

"Bombers are cowardly murderers. Good to hear he was a nice guy, despite being a mentally ill murderous coward.
Keith"
Hey Keith, have your murderous government send the Palestinians billions for tanks, copters and guns and we'll see how many suicide bombers would be necessary. You are the mental midget to ignore the fact that in the face of hopelessness and despair, a suicide bomber is the poor man's best offense. It's far right idiots like you that don't see the Israeli abuses and on the far left (like Chavez) don't see FARC as terrorists (nothing says "freedom fighter" like a necklace-bomb, no?).

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

oldefarte — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:40:41 GMT

Lot of folks here confusing the message with the messenger. If the journalist were obliged, as demanded by some here, to betray his sources, then we'd not have had the opportunity for the insight the article (and, presumably, the book) provides. Understanding the enemy (and I consider Islamofascism and Islamic terrorism "the enemy") is a vital component of defeating it. Ahmed didn't escape justice. He died and, in the meantime, we got a glimpse into all the other "Ahmeds" out there, who have yet to be brought to justice. I thought the author was also fairly clear in his condemnation of the political cynicism, on the part of the Palestinian governing bodies, which set Ahmed on his course of bitter destruction (and self-destruction). There are certainly historical "crimes" to be laid at Israel's door, but even more which lie at the feet of the Arab and Muslim states (and the Palestinians themselves), who have refused any chance to build their own society in favor of trying to destroy the Jewish State whom they blame for their situation. Regardless, however, of which side we favor, knowing a bit about what fuels the fight can only help us to contain, if not end it. Thanks for the article.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Abe — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:41:37 GMT

In the holly land conflict, Who is being killed in great numbers? Who is being lived so poorely deprived of the basic necessities of life? Who is being driven out of his home?
Sincerely answer the questions and be the judge. Without justice, peace is imposible..

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

mark imperial beach ca — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:42:29 GMT

The only way to fight terrorism is with terrorism. Remember killing Pablo.
\

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

John Galt, Portland, OR — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:43:07 GMT

"Freedom fighters fight for freedom against those from whom they want to win that freedom; they do not kill or maim innocent people to make a point or to inflict terror on peaceful communities. One does not compare with the other.
G P, Livonia, MI"
Israel uses its citizens to take over Palestine by occupying/stealing land, creating outposts, boosting a population so that it may continute to spill over into more stolen land. How would you differentiate Israeli settlers and American settlers that killed the Indians? Oh, the Israelis have machine guns and declare their murders as "self-defense" and their stealing of land as a religious rite. By most of your ignorant definitions, you also live in a country built from terrorist activities. Keep in mind Israel is only.. what.. about 60 years old? It wasn't even a country until Jewish "freedom fighters" (terrorists, as you call them) decided their religion said it was ok to take the land by force.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Jay F. — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:43:18 GMT

I try to be objective to both Israel and the Palestinians but the Palestinians have to believe that the state of Israel needs to exist as well. Until they get the concept the future generations of Palestinians will suffer. I know the Palestinian interpretion of the Koran says kill all the infidels including Jews but I don't think that is what God or Allah had in mind. Both books the Bible and Koran are interpreted by man and as far as I'm concern man is one of the most imperfect beings on the planet if not universe to be interpretating God's or Allah's word.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Goedjn, Kingston, RI. — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:45:59 GMT

The difference between a terrorist and a freedom fighter is not, at its root, about what you're willing to fight for/about, or whether you kill or don't. The difference is in HOW you fight, and WHO you kill.
When you shoot at an occupying soldier, that is not
terrorism, even if the country who's soldier you attack calls it that. When you blow up a bus or
a nightclub, without regard to who's in it, that
*IS* terrorism. Trying to kill a head of state
makes you an assassin, an enemy, and quite probably
dead. Trying to kill a little girl makes you evil.

It's really not that hard a distinction.

While I may/will try to kill an enemy, there
remains the possibility of negotiation, compromise,
even reconciliation. With evil, there is none.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Nina E., Omaha, Nebraska — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:53:29 GMT

"When will the Palestinians 'understand' also and come to the table to talk peace instead of with bombs?" - Michael S.

They do understand, and its not all Palestinians fault. Look back at the Holocaust, what happened to the Jews is happening to the Palestinians right now.
Locked up, food and water taken from them, no gas or light. Just today, the good 'ol USA is helping the Jews do this. My father is from Nablus, he doesn't have the right to go back to his BIRTH PLACE cause of the Jews.

I understand that not all Jewish people are bad, but the people who are running the country are foul evil men. And I believe what those two men did was wonderful. Despite all the killing, they did it to help their friends and family.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Eric J., San Jose, California — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:54:55 GMT

My question is this: I can understand dislike and hatred between two peoples. But why target civilians?

If you are going to make warfare on another nation because they bulldoze your homes and drive you out - why target their women and children? Is that not the act of a coward - to target someone who can't fight back?

If you ask me - the real glory of a "freedom fighter" being distinguished from a terrorist is this: A freedom fighter fights against the machine that wages war against him. A Terrorist fights against those who have neither defense, or intent of fighting.

Case in point: In WWII - Nazi's in concentration camps were charged with war crimes - attempted genocide. They targetted civilians, much like terrorists targetted civilians in the World Trade Center. The guards at the POW camps however, or soldiers in the German army who did not target civilians, were not prosecuted. Why? They fought against the war machine of another nation. Even though their cause was "wrong" and their nation was punished as a result, they themselves are not considered terrorists because they fought against another military.

That I believe is the true definition between terrorist and freedom fighter.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

David Allbaugh, Arlington, Virginia — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:56:56 GMT

I doubt if you would have the nerve to write so sympathetically about the Al Qaida Terrorists who have murdered thousands of Iraqi civilians. It is only the Jews who are fair game for terrorism. And this nonsense about stolen land. What about the more then half million Jews who were driven out of Arab countries starting even before Israel was founded in 1948? Why out of the tens of millions of refugees in the 20th Century have only the Palestinians never been resettled in another country or countries. It is because they have been used as pawns in the Arab countries perputal war against Israel. To get sympathy for the plight from mindless idiots like Mr. Fletcher.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

David Allbaugh, Arlington, Virginia — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:58:09 GMT

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

InfuriatedAmerican - Massachusetts — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:58:40 GMT

Our government attacks these people (and also funds other countries to attack them) and when they defend themselves we call them terrorists. Reminds me of how we're treated within the country; We get attacked by our terrorist government and our terrorist police, and when we defend ourselves we are kidnapped and thrown in a cage where we're periodically tortured. The USA is the real terrorist.

I feel so free I can hardly breathe...

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

A.S. Scottsdale, Arizona — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 22:08:48 GMT

A little history lesson, from day 1, 1948 arabs attacked Israel and were defeated in each and every war. Until the so called religeous mullahs stop poisoning the minds of young muslims by preaching their lying propoganda of hate against Israel there will be no peace, and it's all backed by the saudi's and iran. Are they scared of having a true democracy in their midst?.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Connor; Baltimore — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 22:13:33 GMT

People need to relax. The man wrote on article. He's not making any kind of grandstanding argument one way or the either. It's simply a glimpse beyond the objective, out-of-sight-out-mind American mentality that some people have. It's a humanizing article and a pertinent one at that.

We need to understand things. More than that, we need to want to understand. Contrary to your political beliefs, your religious beliefs, your lack-of-religious beliefs, your race, ethnicity, language. I mean, holy-absent-god, even people who have the same language speak it differently. Contrary to all that, there is a sameness betwixt us all in the very things that make us human. We should wish to explore that.

There's so little of that going on these days. You can't make an accurate statement on anything if you don't fully understand the matter; that includes opposing sides. People who you may feel as if you're supposed to despise, to hate, to fear. It's not easy, but it's a necessary effort.

Please, let's not use the word good and evil. The world is not a comic book. It's not a movie. What you have are people believing so whole-heartedly in their side of the story, their relative place on the spectrum of history, that they will do anything to defend that, to protect what they feel is a threat to their life and their livlihood.

When we use the words good and evil, it's too easy to join in the military ra-ra jargon. Evil is something invented by theologians thousands of years. People do things, sometimes terrible things. Forget good and evil. They either don't exist at all or both exist in everyone. Again, that's all objectivity.

As far as the killing of innocents goes, it seems we've quickly and conveniently forgotton Hiroshima and Nakasaki. Militaries, and I'm not just saying American, but all militaries, have historically murdered innocents. It's the part of war that people like to deny their country has ever had any part of because it is, indeed, so horrible of a thing. Consider the Inquisitions of the past. Surely, those burned alive were not guilty of anything except having an opposing belief. Yet thousands were killed and we seldon speak of the Spanish, the Portoguese, and other Midieval Europeans as terrorists or evil, do we?

It boils down to the need, almost the duty, that each one of us has to make an effort to understand just what is truly going on in the world, which is in a very fragile state right now. To be without understanding is to be ignorant. Let's not be ignorant.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Mike — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 22:14:29 GMT

To see his humanity is simple. To judge his motives as good or bad is difficult. To judge his methods is simple. A complex conflict does not ever justify the killing of innocents. Ever!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Joe Smith, Baltimore, Wash — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 22:16:36 GMT

We had couple building and few hundred people die after the wahabi terrorists attack on Sept 11, and we managed to destroy two countries in response. The palastenians were violantly evicted from their land, killed, tortured, their land seized by Europian and American jews. Now these settlers who are armed to their teeth by Saudi Funded american weapons, cry every time a palastinian child throws a rock at their heavy tanks or a desperate fighter kills himself to avenge the occupation of his land by those criminal israelis. They dare call these people terrorists. Well, let them get heavy weaponrey and they would not need to have the so called suicide terrorists. The palastinians would be cowards if they settle for anything but their entire land back, and criminal prosecutions of all the so called isreali army for their crimes. Peace is for the week, the strong always writes history as they like.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Adam, Washington, DC — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 22:22:46 GMT

Yes, they were let down by their leaders...who should have honored their signed treaties with Israel and made peace a reality.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

luca lombardi — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 22:23:12 GMT

no peace has flown from a river of blood...both sides need to know there actions are wrong...they have one thing in common, they are both wrong and the innocent suffer for it

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

K. Wilson — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 22:29:44 GMT

This article has touched my heart with my mind. Empathy has come to me, because your article allowed my mind to view facts from another's view point.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Tyler Beck, Boise, Idaho. — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 22:31:47 GMT

"Live by the sword...die by the sword." agreed. This goes for everyone.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Evan, Fairbanks Alaska — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 22:35:40 GMT

Reading this and articles I have to wonder,in a place with so much pain, if death isn't almost a welcome experience. I mean no disrespect to the familys of those dead.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Cyrus, Miami, Florida — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 22:45:29 GMT

The only person I feel sorry for in this whole story is the mother. She has a level head and knows the consequences of her children's actions but she does not stop them from doing what they want to do (Or maybe its because she cannot stop them because under Islamic Sharia Law, a woman has no rights whatsoever even if she is the mother). Anyone... ANYONE who kills unarmed civilians (for whatever reasons) deserves a slow and painful death and an eternity in hell! The U.S. Army could pay me a monthly salary to kill terrorists but I would gladly kill Ahmed Sanakreh for free. Just give me a pistol and I'll save 20-50 lives with a single bullet. Fuck Terrorists!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Mark Chicago, Illinois — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 23:06:55 GMT

While I do not condone terrorist violence, at the end of the day, Israel is going to be forced to allow some people like Ahmed to come in from the cold. Otherwise, they have no incentive to stop fighting and will merely join Hamas if Fatah make a peace deal. Morally, it will be far better to have a few political murderers go unpunished than to perpetuate this bloody conflict endlessly.

Martin Fletcher's piece is quite balanced, but he is dead wrong on one crticial point. The purposeful targeting of civilians for political violence for psycholgical effect is "terrorism" plain and simple. Whether the political cause associated with that violence is just or unjust is irrelevant to this definition. This definition of "terrorism" needs to be agreed upon by so that it remains beyond the pale.

In contrast, the targeting of an opposing military force by irregular combatants is "guerilla war." The morality of such tactics depends to a far greater extent upon the merits of the political cause.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Jen F. Usher — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 23:09:59 GMT

The read this story expecting a different outcome.

But alas, for the Palestinians it is the young that have their blood spilt daily! While the old, live in fear. As in any conflict over a piece of dirt, the dirt absorbs the losses! While those left, somehow muster the strenght to go on.

Why won't someone stand up and say enough!? Peace will occur only when both sides come to the realization that enough of their respective young are gone. Then and only then will Peace arrive!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Ray, F. G. Koops — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 23:11:37 GMT

The article written, to which all comments are addressed, is most thought provoking.
The comments, running the whole gamut of pro & contra
are equally so.
I'm an elderly Caucasian, owing my life/survival to the Americans having nuked Hiroshima + Nagasaki, shortening the aftermath of World War II. Saving millions of lives in doing so.
Yet regularly you can read articles denouncing the barbarity of nuking.
Granted, no one surviving being nuked, for a longer or shorter period of time, will have enjoyed it - or wishing same on friends or relatives.
Taking a helicopter view of things, changes the dimensions.
Muslims, mainly Arabs, but quite a few millions besides, have left their religious home land, and now mingle with the rest of us around the world.

They wish/demand, to all THEY think, is just and fair,
claiming God/Allah is their ticket.

Objection, to the orthodox (muslim), justifies annihilation of the infidel.

Just how readily is the infidel expected to
agree to be eradicated?

In the real world action is met with reaction.

So, do not hold your breath waiting for Peace, any time soon, or in your grandchildren's life time.

When oil runs out, or is being superceeded, the Midle East powers go back to camel herding and the Jews will continue banking/bank-rolling the world.

Some semblance of live and let live, may/might develop.

Jaundiced, biased, cynical little me.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

troy hannibal missouri — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 23:14:14 GMT

i have now perused most of the earlier messages and am amazed at how few think of who we are talking about here.we are talking about a feud from the very beginning of these people. the sons of isaac and the sons of ishmael. God himself has spoken on the eternal battle and blood chilling hatred these two groups have for one another. and now as we enter FULLY into the prophesied time of the end you are still not yet aware??????????????????/WAKE UP !!!!!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Logan, Boise, Idaho — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 23:15:01 GMT

The only difference between a terrorist and a freedom fighter or a patriot is wether or not you win and live to write the history books. This story is both tragic and disgusting. Being a hero or a villian is, in the end, always a matter of perspective. Were the founding fathers of the US and the US Revolutionary army terrorists? Were they Heros and patriots? It is my beleif the the answer to both questions is the same. YES, they were. As I stated before, it is all a question of wether or not you win.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Anna, Seattle, WA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 23:15:35 GMT

No wonder Palestenians live in such slums, it's because they teach their children to hate Jews. All this bloodshed and poverty is a direct result of hate. These people need to wake up and see that they are now reaping what they have sowed.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Richard Kates Richland, WA — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 23:18:26 GMT

I'm touched by the personal elements of this article.

Review your history and you will find that the Israelis are not the occupiers. The "Palestinians" will not recognize Israel's right to exist. This is jihad vs jews and infidels and nothing more. It has been politicized and propagandized as well as other fascist goups have done. What I am saying is not "hate" or any "phobia", all PC words used today. This is history...research it!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Keith, Richmond, Va — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 23:19:10 GMT

This story is sickening liberal, anti-Israel propaganda. He was a murderous thug who contributed to killing innocent children and women. We as Americans complain about water boarding and what evil people the military and CIA are for doing it, but we then question whether this man is a terrorist. What hippocracy! Land belongs to who occupies it currently. This is the way it has been through history. The Jews have Israel now. If you want it (Arabs) try to take it. I'm impressed how much restraint Israel takes when facing your murderous ways.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Barry Bailey Roxboro, NC — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 23:21:06 GMT

It was obvious from the start. The real reason for the war was the perceived need to establish a democracy in the region. Afganistan is too poor to be a self supporting democracy. Oil rich Iraq can. Saddom's actions provided the excuses. History shows that the popular reasons for war are rarely the actual reasons. No new surprises here.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Tony — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 23:22:11 GMT

Wow, good story! even the comments are ll over the sides of the story goes to show you how complicated the issue is:
here is a common goal: mothers from both sides do not want their children killed, why not have mothers get together and form an alliance to renouce violence and live happily ever after. I am sure Bush would finance any peace efforts made by both sides if they agree to stop killing each other and live happily.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Laura, Chicago, IL — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 23:24:11 GMT

What sad lives these boys must have to have to resort to this. Why can't people understand that what they do is a result or an effect of what other people do to them? Maybe they would stop if Israel and America would stop stealing their land, destroying their means of life, separating them from the rest of the world with a gigantic wall and eliminating hope. No one was blowing himself up in the 1940s. this is probably the first time i read the truth on an american webpage!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

whosemorality, washington DC — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 23:35:09 GMT

It has always been the easy way out for the intelectually challenged to jump on the louder band wagon. The so called crusaders of the early christian era were terrorists, and so were the american revolutionaries and french revoltionaries......... but now they are viewed as freedom fighters and martyrs for a higher cause. Lets not be hasty to judge others for our day too will come when we will be judged. When America dropped the Atomic bomb on civilians how many of us declared the allied forces led by america to be terrorists ? If that was war , so is this one being fought by the palestinians. Ahh ! morality ....... by whose definition........the defintion of the word changes with time and place........ Bush invaded iraq under false prentenses and thousands of innocent women and children have died......... so why not declare him and his cronies terrorists.......because thats not the politically prudent thing to do ?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Woman that reads history books, Vancouver, Wash — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 23:49:29 GMT

Terrorist this, terrorist that. EVERYONE is a terrorist to someone. To iraqis, we're terrorists. to us, they're the terrorists. the only solution i see is to get rid of humans. all we do is destroy and it's never going to stop. it is not in our nature to "share" and unless all religion is abolished, we won't share. so. yeah, humans must be destroyed. bears don't commit acts of terror against other bears. humans as a whole are evil and should not exist.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Dave — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 00:01:29 GMT

For everyone calls anyone a coward or terrorist for using suicide bombs, ieds, and rockets because of all the innocent lives that are lost... Think about this, isn't the "shock and awe" tactic cowardly?? There is no one on the ground fighting when those bombs go off... Infantry goes in to "clean up" what is left. Look at how many lives were lost in WWII from bombings that took place; now look at Iraq, Afghanistan, Palestine, and Lebanon. Its easy to point the finger at another without looking in the mirror.
Great article looking at the "enemy" as another human being!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

tariq, jordan. — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 00:15:22 GMT

people,if you dont know what your talking about please do not comment, ur not helping anyone. im half palestinian and im proud of my heritage. mistakes have been made on our behalf?? yes. is there a nation or a country that does not make mistakes?? no. the united states commonly known as a democratic country has waged a war for no reason and killed millions of iraqi's in vein, not to mention ofcourse the brave american soldiers that fought till their last breath for a false cause. when a palestinian kills or bombs isreali's bcuz his mother, sister and daughter got raped infront of him, he is referred to as a terrorist, open your eyes, defending your country is not a crime. its ur duty.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Derick, Riverside. Ca — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 00:21:33 GMT

It's amazing how many people miss the whole point of this article. Terrorist or not is all relative. The American revolutionaries were viewed as terrorists by the British crown. If the Palestinian movement is solely defined by it's adversaries, then I'm sure they will continue to be called terrorists.
The west has decided that all it has to do is label someone a terrorist, and the public will justify almost any treatment. Don't bother to question anything, just stick your head in the sand and pretend that nobody lies to you. Have you heard all of the things America has been accused of? Certainly America is guilty of some of them, does that thereby make the claims of our opponents more true. Are we evil because someone says so? I would like to hope that people have at least the most minimal ability to use their brain to look deeper into these claims, but rather we accept all the anti-palestinian propaganda, turn off our brains, and proudly proclaim, "It must be true, they told me on TV." American's seem to think that their viewpoint defines reality, just because we have decided to label someone a terrorist, has absolutely no bearing on that individuals motives. If I watched my family, friends and neighbors getting killed at a ratio of 10-1, these false labels all of a sudden lose their validity. Have some empathy people, would you just sit and accept the lies while your family was being persecuted and killed. The reality is that the whole attitude America was founded on was that we would not take the crap handed to us, we would make a better life for ourselves independently. Palestine is simply trying to live up to the same high ideals. American revolutionaries commited a lot of acts that would today be labeled as terrorist, read your history books. I guess it's ok for Americans to fight for their freedom and an end to oppression, but as soon as someone unpopular does the same exact thing we label them as terrorists and give our thumbs up to the persecution and murder of their families. It doesn't strike you as strange that palestinians are fighting tanks with rocks and improvised munitions, all the while Isreal gets our blessing to continue killing innocents at a rate of 10-1. The wholesale ignorance makes me almost ashamed to be an American.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Happy Al, Colorado — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 00:33:02 GMT

Here's an idea: Why don't we blow BOTH Israel and Palestine and get rid of the problem once and for all? Just a thought...

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Michael Kline, East Windsor, NJ — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 00:46:44 GMT

Riddle me this, Mr. Fletcher:
What freedom have these killers been killing for when the Gazan Palestinians are fighting the West Bank Palestinians? Are they Fighters FOR Freedom or Fighters OF Freedom when they take away the freedom to live of innocent people just shopping or enjoying a meal?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Anthony Peck — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 00:48:25 GMT

This article is very informative on how your enemy can become your friend. Yet the author makes the point that his children go to the same locations these people wanted to blow up! This story would be VASTLY different had the authors children been harmed!

Freedom Fishters are an expedient title for MURDERER's. The true freedom fighters are not the ones that blow up civilians. The tree of liberty can NEVER be fed with the blood of civilians.

If this terrorist was such a patriotic freedom fighter, then there is ONE obvious question to ask.... WHY WAS HE SENDING OTHER PEOPLE TO DO WHAT HE SHOULD HAVE DONE?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Kent, San Jose, CA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 01:01:34 GMT

And the sad beat goes on...There will be no peace until the Palastinian people love their children more than they "hate" the Jews.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

MAD MAD on the world.NY — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 01:05:43 GMT

We should also remind the world about the state of Israel too ,how it became to exist in 1948.
the state of Israel became to exist by killing innocent Palestinians and wiping entire villages of Palestinians and blowing up hotels and buildings full of peoples ,to remind the world of the Zionist atrocities they committed against defenseless peoples.
To remind the world on what basis this state was built. It was built on the basis of killing,terrorizing,stealing other peoples land,occupying other nations land,

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

dirar, Charleston, West Virginia — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 01:11:24 GMT

Thanks for the article. It is easy for peolpe who never seen war and killing to pass judjement. I am a Palestinian who saw death, destruction an pain from the Israelis that will last me for several life times. I have feelings for every mother just like my mother, including Israeli mothers. The only way there will ever be peace in Israel and Palestine is when "AIPAC" American Israel Public Affairs Com. value Israeli and Palestininan lives over their own power hunger, manipulation of American plicy. I know all of you have brains, please read the new book "The Israel Lobby". Thanks to each of you for thinking, for a change.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Bruce Rideout, Madison, WI — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 01:13:09 GMT

How about a little history to bring some perpective to who are the terrorists.
Jewish is not a race or a nationality.It is a faith, a religion. Those who call themselves Jewish are not original occupants of what is now Israel. The original occupants were Arab.
Global Zionist Jews, along with German Jews, sold out Gremany twice in 30 years by orchestrating the entry of the US in WWI and WWII, slaughtering millions needlessly. In return, these global zionists secured the Palestinian land now called Israel.
Thousands of Palestinian citizens were brutally removed by force to make room for the immigration of foreign Jews from all over the world!
Sound familiar? It should for we did the same thing to Native Americans. And guess what we called any Native American who dare defend his homeland? Renegade, marauder, savage. What did we call immigrants who claimed native land as their own? Settlers, pioneers, proud.
Israeli soldiers kill children and it is called collateral. Palestinian suicide bomber kills Israeli children is called a terrorist, a coward.
Anyone killing a child to promote a political agenda is a coward.
I am ashamed at my county's support of the brutal occupation of Palestine as well s it's brutal occupation of Iraq, where we now call any Iraqi fighting back their oppressors a terrorist.
So what do we call a nation which uses overwhelming military might to brutally carry out a political agenda of control over soveriegn nations?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

A. de Sosa, Chatsworth, California — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 01:24:12 GMT

I have no sympathy at all - none - for anybody that participates in, authorizes, condones, or even tacitly approves of the deliberate, indiscriminate targeting of non-combatant men, women, and children in non-military environments. However regrettable the circumstances, the young men in this story chose to perpetrate terrorist acts and thus forfeited their own lives. The Israeli government cannot and should not be faulted for making every effort to eradicate them in order to protect its own citizenry.

It is also difficult to sympathize with the Palestinian cause in general given the level of worldwide largesse that has been, and continues to be, directed towards them, yet has so little to show for it. Their political leadership, beginning with Yasser Arafat and continuing to this day, has a shameful history of lining their own coffers and those of their cronies, while doing little, if anything, to relieve their population from squalorous poverty and inhuman living conditions. And if that were not bad enough, they perpetuate their population's discontent by laying blame for their enumerable ills solely on Israel and by invoking religion to incite retribution against Israel and the "Satan dog" West that supports them.

If you read the following report:

http://fpc.state.gov/documents/organization/60396.pdf

several things immediately jump out.

1. Currently, Palestinians are the largest per capita recipients of foreign aid worldwide.

2. There is no shortage of foreign aid (U.S. and otherwise) being thrown at the problem.

3. Until the Palestinian population chooses to redirect its energies towards eliminating its own corrupt political leadership, there will be no end in sight to this vicious cycle.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Mike, Atlanta GA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 01:26:04 GMT

While you share the heart breaking story of his mother over the grave site, share the heart breaking story of the many mother's grieving over the children killed by his bomb. Not the soldiers, not the politicians but the innocent people. Yes, there is a difference.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Crises, Montreal, QC — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 01:53:27 GMT

I want to congratulate you for making this effort. There is a very simple solution to all of this. But the solution requires certain kind of people on both sides, people who have the capacity to realize that too much blood has been spilt, too many mothers have lost their kids, and too many kids have lost their father. And that it is time to let go of the battle wounds, and compromise. Unfortunately, such people are limited in number, often powerless, subdued, and helpless themselves. So until such time we will just have to wait and see the two sides duke it out.

As far as "Terrorists" are concerned, we have the privilege to say who is, and who is not. Some of the learned readers can come up with real sophisticated definition of the word. I just wish that we were consistent in our quest to deem people/nations evil. I feel, anytime an individual or group (recognized or not) purposely harm/terrorize another individual/group for political/strategic gain, should be considered a "Terrorist". This means that we will then have to include ourselves, especially when casualties of our moral/just war contain 90% civilians. Unless we feel that our dead are more precious than the other side, and that a child on the side of what we have defined as evil deserves a horrible death, or maybe a bomb dropped by our state of the art aircraft carries a legitimacy that exonerate us from taking responsibility.

I wish everyone would just stop for a moment and think. But this is only a wishful thinking. There is too much at stake, too much money to be made, too much hate to be vent, too much revenge to be taken, too much evil to be rid off, too many bombs to be dropped, too big a crowd to pass on a suicide mission, too precious a land to share.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Joe Graham, New Jersey — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 01:59:55 GMT

If you think about it, it is the fault of the UN and the Zionists, would you like it if somebody comes to your home, kicks you out and tells you that this home belonged to his ancestors 4,000 yrs ago? No, of course not, so if they get off of their lands and stop occupying the lands then peace will come.
Another thing is the zionists there are Europeans, not the original inhabitants of the land 4,000 yrs ago and the people in those lands probably converted.
The Isrealis claim the lands are theirs but it isn't, they have been convinced that they are the original Jews when they are just European converts.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Rita, Arizona — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 02:06:54 GMT

First to blame is very easy the Americans, the English, and their allies. We are the ones that made the decision to send the Jews to the land that would become Israel. The English also share even more blame because they were rulers of that land before and during the war. It was against the law for Jews to have weapons but the Palestinian could have them and were more than willing to use them. If an English soldier decided something you carried could be construed as a weapon you could be shot on sight.

Second is the Palestinians mostly groups like the Hamas to be blamed here, they would before the English left sink any ships that came in to port full of Jews. They looked forward to the day the English left, and when they did that is when war broke out. The Jews with pisley amount of weapons and the Palestinians loaded. The goal of the war was to kill every Jew in what was to become Israel and have their blood run into the sea.

Lastly, the Jews for what they have done since this time. They have since done many attocities to the Palestinians. At the beginning it wasn't their fault because that's where they were told that was their new home a place to go by the Allies. They had nowhere else to go.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Timour, Norman, OK — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 02:08:41 GMT

"Mojahedeens" were once "freedom fighters" fighting Soviets in Afghanistan. Ben Laden was. CIA trained him and alike. Big money makes wars possible. Middle East is loaded with weapons on all sides, manufactured in the West, Russia, China, etc. And every time conflict escalates, new contracts follow. Every bomb falling is money into somebody's checking account. That somebody has by far more vote than one.

I appreciate the article for an attempt to seek causes of a conflict. Killing off fighters rarely ends conflict. In devastation, new generation is born, and goes to fight for brothers and fathers. Desperation on either side brings extreme violence. Evil begets evil.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

dwain, — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 02:12:14 GMT

tisk tisk.... we all are forgetting who actually "invented" suicide bombing. In the 1940's when the jews invaded Palestine the jews were the first to suicide bomb, innocent men, women and children, whether they were british, arab or american. It didnt matter to them who died, as long as they got their own way- which they finally did. Remember the Taliban, they were classified as freedom fighters when they were fighting against Russia, how did they become terrorist overnight? All they had to do was attack america (the nation that supplied the weapons they used to "freedom fight" against Russia) People should do their own research and make up there own minds instead of listening to these corrupt media outlets! people should use something they probably havent used in a while... their BRAINS dont let other people make up your mind for you think for yourself ITS GOOD FOR YOU!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

L.P.C., Wichita, KS — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 02:16:47 GMT

World conflicts will only be resolved when each individual group and nation realizes that NO ONE has the right to claim that they are 100% right and everyone else is 100% wrong.

Our US foreign policy that operates under the mistaken belief that everything we say and do is always right has to go. We have to admit our own mistakes in word and deed -- remove the plank from our own eye before we point out the speck in the other guy's eye.

I pray that our next president will be far more reasonable and rational and will finally begin the slow process of bringing the world together instead of seeking to blow us all apart. We had a golden opportunity to act positively in 2001, but instead we chose to respond in barbaric fashion, becoming no better than those we opposed. Shame on us!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Lynn F — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 02:28:31 GMT

"Freedom figther" describes what a person's goal is. "Terrorist" describes how they go about achieving that goal. You can be one without being the other. If fear is your weapon of choice, then you are a terrorist. And if you are a terrorist you have lost the right to expect anyone to care why you are fighting. There are other, better ways.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Singapore — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 02:54:58 GMT

I salute you Mr.Fletcher!
If only there are more people like you in powerful positions at both sides of the conflict, then perhaps things would be better.

It is obvious that no one can defeat the US-armed Israelis in a fair fight. They are simply well-trained and backed with superior fire-power.
I do not condone suicide-bombings..
But lets imagine if you are borned as a palestinian ... what options do you have?
Let your people get kicked around in your own country for generations or do something about it?

Even if Mr.Fletecher didn't point this out ... every
human wants a future for themselves and their loved ones.. no one wants to fight perpetually!
Sometimes I wonder if great warriors like Ariel Sharon, the Netanyahu brothers etc swap places with
the palestinians and the Palestinians are the ones with US-warmachines ... what do you think they will do?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Thomas Green, Rosamund, CA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 03:07:34 GMT

Israel is an outlaw state, a breeding ground for Zionist terrorism and a focal point for American Jewish and Christian Zionists to funnel resources to Israel for Zionist expansion in the Middle East.
Eretz Israel (the dream of the Zionists) is a pure racist state, similar to Nazi Germany, which seeks to expand it's borders to include: South Lebanon (the Litani River), Sinai, Golan and southern Syria, the West Bank (all of Palestine) and southern Iraq, es-
pecially Basra and a seaport into the Persian Gulf.
The Zionists have not wanted, nor do they want "peace" but rather, they want "pieces" of territory belonging to others.
Instead of the "Jewish Question", the Zionists have 2 questions: "The Palestinian Question" and the "Arab Question". In both instances, similar to the German Nazis, they seek to at least drive them out of conquered territories or, whenever possible, exterminate these two peoples.
There is no democracy in Israel: ask any Israeli Arab where he can buy land, where he can go work, where he can build a home.
American democracy, the U.S. Constitution, indeed the United States itself, are all held hostage by the Zionists.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

John Saah, Bethesda, Maryland — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 03:07:37 GMT

Martin, I very much enjoyed reading your article about courageous Palestinians fighting for their freedom and liberty. While the article was very sad and depressing, it was at the same time, very refreshing to read an article in the American media, which is critical of Israel and its illegal occupation of Palestinian land.

I hope to see more fair and balanced articles regarding the Palestinian tragedy. Bravo to you Martin Fletcher!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Jonathan Segal — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 03:11:38 GMT

It's actually rather encouraging to see that most of those posting responses recognize that a man who DELIBERATELY kills civilians is a TERRORIST and a MURDERER, no matter what his alleged reason for doing it. Considering the moral relativism and political correctness--ie,anti-Israel bias-- that infect most media coverage of the Arab-Israeli conflict, this is nothing short of amazing!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 03:12:13 GMT

Oh, look a bunch of people who want to be next "Hanoi Janes". TERRORIST are not freedom fighters people they are murders. In case you forgot 911. Please tell me what did any of those Americans in those buildings do to these so called freedom fighters?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Lee Holmes — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 03:37:51 GMT

Sean: When did American revolutionaries incinerate old men and women,children,and lob rockets into Quebec[British Territory]? Elaborate.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Richard, Los Angeles — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 03:43:21 GMT

The Israeli Army is a cowardly organization, full of low-life thugs. They bulldoze people out of their own homes, murder young children, and then complain why there are so many "terrorists". Look in the mirror!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Amond, Hanover, MD — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 03:57:06 GMT

This story was needed to show that on either side of conflict, there are human beings. We might call them terrorist but in the eyes of their people, they are freedom fighters. Arabs bleed the same way as any other people and they are human too. I wish as Americans our ignorance does not blind us to misery that happens in this world.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Huda , Kansas City, MO — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 04:08:59 GMT

First off I would like to say I am a 15 year old Palestinian and I have visited many times and seen and experienced with Israelis. The Israeli people should not be blamed and killed for the actions of their government, just as the Palestinian people should not be held accountable for everything that takes place whether it's the bombings or attacks. I would like for EVERYONE to know that our religion (Islam) does not okay the killling of innocent lives. We are considered martyrs for fighting for our religion. We defend our rights, some people choose to neglect the proper way of doing things. This does not mean individuals should attack and accuse the arab nation as a whole as a result of others actions. This situation greatly angers and saddens me.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

jeff — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 04:23:04 GMT

This is just sympathy for the devil - the ends don't justify the means and if you are willing to attempt to humanize someone who murders unarmed civilians in a premeditated fashion without even considering their victims then you are part of perpetuating the climate that makes this behavior continue. A great deal of analysis has shown that terrorists usually aren't desperate deprived individuals but instead educated (and sometimes wealthy - witness Bin Laden) fanatics who don't kill because they were pushed to it - they kill because they subscribe to an ideology that glorifies and celebrates it. The militant edge of Islam has regressed to a place of medieval brutality and the would be "moderates" within the community have voices that are increasingly hard to hear, perhaps in part because so many worldwide are eager to find an underdog to rally behind, even if that underdog is morally bankrupt.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Tony, Boston, MA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 04:23:12 GMT

Forgive me if i don't shed a tear....I have no sympathy for these men who help to kill innocent people with their bombs...NONE!!!!

I of course feel for their mother....she has lost her children....but her sons chose their path.

Perhaps you should tell the story of some of their victims....those are the stories that should be told...not any story that glorifies these monsters.

Your headline sums up the problem with the mainstream media by the way...these men are terrorists....end of story...any attempt to portray them in any other light....dihonors the memory of their victims!!!!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

God Fearing, peace loving man — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 04:26:19 GMT

Oh God I pray to you. Cut the power and water, take away hope for any meaningful life and bring on an indignified life to the Isreal, to create an equal footing between the two sides so they both understand each other and motivated for lasting peace.
Love both the Jews and Arabs, eventhough both act viciously at times, but a higher intervention is needed. Man is not capable of solving this problem.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Hatem, Chicago IL — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 04:26:26 GMT

I am glad to hear some common sense in our media. of course people are people every where, and we should respect everybody's right to live and defend themselves. nobody supports the death of civilians and the innocent, but thats what the Israeli forces have been doing for decades. all I can do is dream for peace.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Mike, Los Angeles, Ca — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 05:06:00 GMT

The reasons why terrorists attacks are so tragic is because they are done by human beings, even people that may not be our vision of evil. This case, and cases of other young men and women who resort to murder, shows the true complexity of good and evil.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

jane doe — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 05:12:18 GMT

You say that Israelis are the terrorists but let me ask you this who has more of a right to live...civilians, Women and children or a man who has dedicated his life to make explosives that kill these women and children. Call him whatever you want Terrorist militant freedom fighter, he was a soldier of sorts, and therefore he was open game for the IDF.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

eileen, san diego, CA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 05:23:09 GMT

I wonder why the so called palestinians in Gaza etc. dont go after their so called land that was seized during the 6 day war by Egypt and Jordan like they do with Israel. Only Israel has to give back the land. But Jordan and Egypt don't have to. Why? Because it's not about the land. It's about the Jews and their hatred of them, period. Most don't even know their historical truth. The so called palestinians were namadic arabs w/no land. Until an English Queen said to give them some land etc. I dont see the land of Palestine in the Bible written over 2000 yrs ago nor the dead sea scrolls etc. But I do see the LAND of Israel in them.... so u tell me who was their first!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Jeff Danfield Burmeister — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 05:35:37 GMT

I see no difference between the Gaza Ghetto and the Warsaw Ghetto. The Jews fought for freedom against the Nazis just as the Palestinians justly fight aginst the Zionists.

Jeff, Auckland, New Zealand

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

IB NAJIMSEN , COPENHAGEN, DENAMRK — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 05:40:40 GMT

Thank you Mr. Flitcher for your effort to educate world public opinion and that can arouse world conscience.I am hoping that the human conscience of many people in Israel will still awaken to the tragedy tha thave been instrumental in inflicting , upon another people that was never guilty of their persecution in Europe. It is not the Palestinian who was guilty of suffering of the Jew in Europe . It is Europe that's guilty of Jew in Europe.
and may I add that before our blessed country /United States opened its doors to Jews from Europe,the only place in the world to which Jews could go . assured of freedom from discrimination, assured of an equal life and opportunities , the only place was the Arab World.
It was only the Arab world that Jews could come to escape persecution in Europe. i believe that one day Jews will will wake up to remember this.
Every Israeli who is in Israel today is living in the home of a Palestinian who has not been compensated for his property.Every Israeli who is in Israel today is there because an Arab has been ousted.
My hope that the human conscience will still wake up among the Zionists living in Israel and will make them realize that they have usurped someone else's land , they have invaded the sanctuary of the Sanakreh Family and , make the accept to live as humen beings in a democratic state rather than to live in an exclusively state ,at the expense of the rightful inhabitant of Palestine.
BUT UNFORTUNATELY US AID FOR ISRAEL IS MAJOR OBSTACLE TO PEACE.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Rita R, Shenandoah, IA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 05:46:39 GMT

I believe that I was showed this story and the one I was reading before it about the break in the wall at Gaza for a reason. I saw inflation in Egypt when the people from Gaza came through the wall, and when the Bible says "a piece of bread could buy a bag of gold", isn't that a form of inflation? Gold has so little value? This might not be to that extent yet, but is it a precursor? And here is a story talking about how peace should be made in Israel, and I can't help but see prophecy. Am I being too out-there? You decide. It's always been our decision what to believe, I just pray that as many decide the right One to believe as possible.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

James Gravell — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 05:47:31 GMT

Americans need to understand that these people have little choice but to fight. They are being brutalized by Israel and America its ally. President Bush has done absolutely nothing to help the situation despite all of Israel's transgressions. And why are people so willing to call the actions of these poor palestians as that of terrorists. Does American or Israeli invasions in the region not get the same terminology.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Jason Fallier, Corpus Christi, TX. — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 05:49:45 GMT

Lets say , for a moment, that there was no Israel, and that it was never created after WW II. And all that land was in the hands of the Palestinians. Would the Middle East live in peace? Would they like the US then? I think the answer to both questions is NO. For example the Iran & Iraq war is one of the many reasons why no peace is possible. There are too many different tribes, beliefs, etc..there for peace to be possible. Not to mention leaders like Saddam, when he was in power in Iraq. And as for being liked, well we are being LABELED as infidels, because some of us will not convert to the Muslim faith. Everyone should be able to worship God in their OWN WAY.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Jenine, Silver Spring MD — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 05:53:54 GMT

This is a good article. People need to see more of this.
The Palestinian people and their rights as human beings have been ignored since 1948. The world hasn't given them attention nor the helping hand they deserve. They are desperate and have no other choice but to strap on a bomb to their chests in a sad attempt to catch the world's attention. They're called terrorist. How ignorant everyone is who calls them such. They are people who will not forget the land that is rightfully theirs--Palestine.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

S Radman — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 06:12:08 GMT

Over and over we hear that Israel cooped up the Palestinians in Gaza. They gave Gaza to them. The border used to be open after Oslo and it would have been again. It is sealed not because of the Israelis but because of the ROCKETS!! I love the posters here who say we should just accept Hamas and coexist, as if they had the same Western values as us. They throw their coPalestinians off buildings. They want to have Sharia law and exclude all "nonbelievers" from their society. Will this lead to coexistance. Nice liberal ideas.... nice to use your naive liberal views to experiment with other peoples futures

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

red dear,seattle wash — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 06:20:55 GMT

he was a boy that got caught up ,i n war like so many others yes i a way he was aterrorist and yet he had a LIFE

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Keith, Chicago, Illinois — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 06:27:45 GMT

While I commend Mr. Fletcher for his success in establishing personal contacts for journalistic purposes, I find it disturbing that he implies a moral equivalence between those Palestinians who kill civilians in the name of theocracy and ethnic genocide and those who defend their families from such thugs. I must also object to the lack of balance displayed. While every human death is unfortunate, it would be much better to weep for the innocents killed by such men, and celebrate that, for the innocent, they are just a little safer tonight.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Collin S, Edmonton, Alberta — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 06:29:48 GMT

Dear America,
It’s so funny to see how many American people ignore the fact that these people(Palestinians) live under American supported Israeli occupation, where the American supply the tanks, copters, missiles land mines and other weapons. For most of history countries and people that lived under occupation normally fight back with any means necessary, just think back to Soviet war in Afghanistan and the Mujahideen freedom fighters (American Label) also labeled Terrorist by the Soviets. The Mujahideen which also created the then freedom fighter Osama Bin Laden’s Al-Qaeda, the Mujahideen found support from a variety of sources including the United States, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and other Muslim nations. You know I go on and on and still the red necks that supports how generations after generations living under horrible conditions with no future in sight, nothing to live for and no hope have ever living free and secured far away from harm will never understand. What would you do if American cities were occupied and you had no freedom, no food and no future, tell me what would you do? Would take up arms against your captors? Would you bomb their houses, their buses, or would you just live like that without hope or future? If that could ever happen to where I live, I would fight; I would fight with last breath in my body.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Ozzy K, Boca Raton, FL — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 06:43:30 GMT

Martin,

You said in your intro, "It is hard for me to describe Ahmed Sanakreh as a terrorist, although I know it's true."

True? Ahmed killed an Israeli SOLDIER occupying Palestinian land, land that countless UN resolutions state must be returned to the Palestinians. That is a pretty long stretch to call him a terrorist. It seems that while you show an artificial and distant sympathy for Ahmed, you did not even touch on the profound realities of occupation that drive thousands of young Palestinian men to seek arms, and war.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Evgraph — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 06:48:01 GMT

Imagine a Jew, a journalist, somewhere in Eastern Europe in 1943 spending a week in a Nazi concentration camp with one of the SS officers in charge of exterminating the Jews at that camp. The journalist befriends the SS man and tries to make the world understand the motivation behind his source's actions: after all, one man's butcher is another man's hero. Absurd? After reading the arcticle, I take my hat off before the proverbial Jewish cynisism (the author is an obvious Jew.) Anything for a buck or vanity! I bet your book would be published with great fonfare by a Jewish publisher.

And as for you, comments writing people, just remember that this is not our war to be getting all emotional about. You didn't care about women and children of Rwanda buchered down like pigs with cheap Chiness machetes by some monkeys, or about women and children of Sudan raped and killed by the Arabs. So why do you care about these baboons? After all, they are the same: sons of Abraham or whatever, engaged in the perpetual pissing contest. But the truth is-its the same baboon with virtually no difference in DNA composisition. Or are we still feeling guilty for the crimes of the SS men whome our grandfathers died fighting in Normandy and in Stalingrad? I'd say screw them both, if they both kill each other I doubt anyone would miss them.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Samer Yassin — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 07:12:06 GMT

these guys are seen as terrorists from oneside are also seen as freedom fighters from the otherside. These people have no land. They believe they have been robbed of their identity. I wonder what the US citizens will do if Mexico invaded Texas!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Wendy W, Tulsa, OK — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 07:23:10 GMT

This was a very sad story. People are people and we all do what we can to survive. Yes, what he did was wrong, the killing of innocents, but, if you look at every death, someone will think that the person that died is an innocent, no matter what they do. The US cannot and should not attempt to fix the world's problems. It is not the US job to fix the world. Not everyone thinks like our government. (There are people in the US that do not think like our government.) We need to stop pushing the way that we do things on other people. The fight for the Gaza Strip has been going on for a long time. Yes, it would be nice to have the entire thing divided and everyone to live happily ever after, but that is not the way the world works. I will grieve for all the people who loose loved ones. Regardless of their cause of death. It is all senseless, but then again, maybe it's not.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

JOHN DOE — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 08:18:35 GMT

ARE YOU ARAB Mr. Fletcher???

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

benjammin phxazUSA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 08:30:46 GMT

War breeds hatred.
Thou shalt not kill.
Can't we all just get along?
If it's an eye for an eye, soon all are blind.

I (like another poster before me) think that something huge is beginning to happen.

I have had a recurring dream for over 20 years now. In my dream, Muslims all over the mideast start a mass holy pilgrimage to Israel. They number in the millions. As they reach Israel, they are warned to stop. Hundreds of thousands of men, women, and children die, unarmed and en masse. Soon Israel and the U.S. are confronted by the rest of the world and threatened if they continue. The rest of my dream keeps changing...

I hope deep in my heart that the civilized world we claim to be in prevents such an atrocity.

We ALL know right from wrong. The fate of humanity rests just as precariously in yours or my hands as it does with the most powerful people in the world.

Peace.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Brent, Washington DC — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 10:31:41 GMT

Someone named brog wrote above: live by the sword, die by the sword. Well, that applies to the Jews as well.
And as someone else wrote: the Israelis are the real terrorists here--creating a huge ghetto, a huge open-air prison out of Gaza as they also create "Indian reservations" out of what's left of the West Bank. Anyone who resists the theft of his land and the destruction of his people is a hero in my book.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Living in Kuwait — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 10:45:45 GMT

Mr. Fletcher, your post is a refreshing insight into this conflict. I'd like to ask a single question:

Let's say that **ALL** palestinian suicide bombers and fighters directed their attacks against Isreali soldiers **ONLY**, would we still call them TERRORISTS?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

kevin — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 11:11:06 GMT

Name 1 thing a modern Arab country has given the world? You need look no farther than you're computer if asked the same thing about Isreal.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Mike, San Marcos TX — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 11:14:49 GMT

It is appaling how many people here are eager to point fingers and say that the young men chronicled in this story are "terrorists" because they killed "innocent people" (sorry, but soldiers enforcing Israel's illegal, brutal, oppressive occupation of Palestine do not qualify as "innocent people" — much less do those killed by Hezbollah in Lebanon), and should be dealt with accordingly, but seem to be completely ignorant to the fact that Israeli massacres of Palestinian civilians (and by "civilians," I mean women, children, and the elderly — not anyone that could even concievably be construed as a militia member or "terrorist") outnumber the converse by about ten to one. I suppose they wouldn't know, because this fact is never disclosed in our media.

Also, to all those Zionist fools who think the Israeli evacuation of Gaza was some sort of act of altruism that was reciprocated with "rocket fire" on the part of the Palestinians, you need a little fact check. Aside from the fact that Israel's motivation in withdrawing from Gaza was to politcally consolidate its hold on the West Bank and because it was no longer able to guarantee the security of its illegal settlements in Gaza, Hamas had observed an unreciprocated cease-fire with Israel for over a year prior to the elections that brought it to power. Following those elections, Israel, the U.S. and the E.U. decided to punish the people of Gaza for electing Hamas by insituting an air-tight blockade and withholding revenues due the democratically-elected Palestinian government. Only after Gazans began to greatly suffer at the hands of these ill-concieved policies did the rocket-fire resume.

And let's be honest. No one has been killed by rocket fire within the internationally-recognized borders of Israel (i.e. the "Green Line") within the last year. In fact, most of the rockets do no damage at all, and those that do mostly only cause property damage. On the other hand, hundreds of innocent Palestinian civilians have been killed and maimed by Israeli attacks within the same time period.

The fact is, that there is simply no parity with regard to the suffering and loss of life caused by Palestinian "terrorists" and that caused by Israel.

The formerly urbane and mostly secular Palestinians have essentially lost everything and have nothing left to loose. So some of them have chosen to "fight or die," by whatever means available to them, rather than live with Israel's foot on their necks.

But, I ask, how is this conflict essentially different than any other struggle against imperialism (like that between the Irish and their Anglo-Saxon occupiers, or against Apartheid in South Africa) in which "terrorist" tactics were used? And why is it acceptable for countries like the U.S. and Israel to kill civilians and call it "collateral damage," while people with much fewer strategic and tactical resources who do the same (and on generally smaller scale) are stigmatized?

I definitely do not condone targeting civilians in either case, and think that it is very counterproductive for the Palestinians to use such tactics, but grow weary of the hypocrisy constanly issuing from the media, governments, and supporters of Israel and its shills in the U.S.

Last, but not least, before anyone casts aspersions about me being a "liberal," as was done to a previous poster, I want to interject that I am well to the right of any of you globalist, McCain-loving, Zionist-lackey, neo-con, "Project for the New American Century" types who have no problem ruining this country's credibility, shedding American blood, and spending us into a hole that we will never be able pay our way out of, all to ensure complete domination of the Middle East by a country that has done nothing but spit in our face since its inception.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Sharon, Detroit, Michigan — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 11:36:55 GMT

Interesting, Mr. Fletcher, that you say your "own children use the same buses and go to the same clubs that Ahmed and his men wanted to blow up". I guess that means you live on the Israeli side of the border. Why not live in Gaza with your dear freedom fighter friends? What a hypocrite.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Asad Wasi , New Delhi, India — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 11:38:58 GMT

A true account of sad happenings in Palestine. Wish decision makers were reading this.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Art D ,MA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 11:40:24 GMT

The patriots that liberated the to be US from Brittain would be terrorist today.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

David ( Former Marine & Vietnam Vet.), Sarasota, FL — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 12:08:07 GMT

If only more people were more aware of the facts regarding how the Isralis are treating the Palestinians on the West Bank, and put themselves in their shoes, possibly then they might understand what drives these young men and women to be willing to give up their lives in protest and retaliation.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Yehuda Draiman, Northridge, CA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 12:14:21 GMT

Wonders of the world – things we take for granted

To touch
To taste
To see
To hear
To feel
To laugh
To love

Those things we overlook as simple and ordinary are truly wondrous

A gentle reminder for all of us that the most precious things in life cannot be bought
They must be experience with the heart.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Dave, Mannheim Germany — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 13:00:00 GMT

I have very little sympathy for Israel, given the way that the Palestinians have been treated by that government over the last several decades. However, having seen Palestinians high-fiving and dancing in the streets at the news of the 9-11 attacks on the United States, I find it impossible to feel much sympathy for them, either. No one who rejoices at the death of randomly selected Americans can be anything more than an enemy of my country and my own enemy as well.

Had Ahmed restricted his attacks to Israeli military forces, it would be possible to view him as a soldier engaged in defending his people. He did not, preferring instead to attack Israelis at random simply because of their nationality or religious faith and not because they had done anything whatsoever to him or to his people. He was nothing more than a murderer and an accessory to murder, and in the United States criminal charges for such acts would be aggravated by the fact that they were "hate crimes" as well. He was a terrorist, an animal, and nothing more.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Heather, Nj — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 13:06:22 GMT

It is not fair to call Ahmed a terrorist. He was fighting for freedom... for real people. The jews are crying that they are victims of people like Ahmed but that is not the truth. people like Ahmed are desperate and it is the Isreali people that caused this desperation. like the old saying goes, desperate times call for desperate measures. you cannot blame Ahmed for what he did he is a human being the palestinians are humans too and have a right to live in their own country. you are forgetting the real issue here... the palestinians were forced out of their country, are terrorized everyday and it is because of Isreal. Isreal illegally occupied their land and now they are the terrorists for fighting back? any other argument is simply preposterous. I am Jewish and am able to put things in perspective because I am trying to be fair. I wouldnt want to live this way then I shouldnt force other too either. They are just fighting for their land. Anyone who disagrees should brush up on their history... the Isrealis are the terrorists the palestinians are victims in their own land. The media just takes sides usually and it is usually on the isreali side making them seem innocent. when 911 happened all americans got a taste of terror and what it means now imagine living like that 24/7... you would defend yourself and fight for your freedom too and the rest of the world will also call you a terrorist.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Heather, NJ — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 13:17:08 GMT

Yehuda of NJ, I would like to respond to your comments on Isreal belonging to the Jews as you say is quoted in the Quran. You also neglected to state that when they finally reached the promised land and moses told them to go in and fight for it they declined. they stood outside the gates of their promised land and said we dont want to fight those people they are stronger than us and we are only a few... they told moses you and your God go fight. that is when God told them they are forbidden to enter it and exiled them for 40 years. It was denied to them after their insolence... that is the real version. go check your stories and check your facts... the problem is we speak from where we want to believe but reality doesnt work that way. facts are facts and another fact is that most religious books were altered, modified and change to suit our needs and lifestyle. God didnt intend it that way.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Dave Bary Independence MO. — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 13:48:11 GMT

American 'Patriots' who fought the British were by all definitions 'terrorists'. Ah, gotta love that 'Moral Relativism', eh?

People seem to have this need to be on the 'winning side', and they can't seem to keep objective. It's a shame.
Sean, Torrington CT (Sent Wednesday, January 23, 2008 12:35 PM)
Are you an American, or even know your history. The patriots were guerrilla fighters not terrorist. They used hit and run tactics. They didn't go around blowing up coffee shops or restaurants LOL. They used tactics against the British army not the British civilians. They came here we didn't go over there.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Yusef — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 13:51:01 GMT

Give Florida to the Jews, and once they've moved in all of there friends let them have Georgia & Alabama. By the way, there scripture tells them they have the right to the whole east coast & the mid-east states. Oh you don't agree? Ok...well China will supply them with enough weapons to change that opinion, but don't blame China...there all the way over there in Asia! Now surrender your arms, you can carry slingshots but automatic weapons are for Jews & Chinese only and we wouldn't want you becoming intolerant of your new neighbors. While the Jews bulldoze your homes & push you into the least inhabitable areas of the West Coast...what would you do, fight back with your slingshot or make a bomb?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Basil Salah — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 13:56:02 GMT

Has everyone forgotten that it was the early zionists (Israelis) that introduced terrorism to region. The majority of Palestinians are refugees that lived in the borders of Israel prior to 1948 until they were driven out of their homes, towns razed and bulldozed, and community destroyed by European Jewish settlers.

Deir Yassin as an example was a town of 250 Palestinians outside of Jerusalem, whose entire population was masacred except for 5 people in 1948. The bodies of the victims were dragged through the Jewish Sector and dumped into a well. The United Nations observer said that bodies had all been mutiliated and limbs severed. Two of those terrorists involved in the Deir Yassin massacre later became Prime Ministers of Israel. It was the Stern and Irgun that used to explode bombs in the Arab Souks taking innocent Palestinian lives. It was the Hagannah,the predecessor of the IDF, that ethnically cleansed 500 Palestinian villages to make room for Jews coming from all over the world. If one knows their history, then one would know that the atrocities committed by Israelis does not even compare to the victims of palestinian terror. As the great Jewish linguist, Naom Chomsky, once said, for every one Jewish civillian that are killed in the Arab-Israeli conflict, there are 100 Palestinian civilians that are killed. Who is the real terrorist?

Finally, if you are serious about finding a solution to this problem then read up on it and do not depend on mainstream television, media, and politicians that are beholden to the Israeli lobby. The conflict between the Arabs and the Israelis (Jews) is not one of land as is typically misdiagnosed by mainstream America. The problem is zionism which is a racist system and philosphy whose core prinicipal is the Jews have a greater right to live in the holy land than the native Palestinians. This means massacring, ethnic cleansing, and destroying the Palestinian community is justified. This means that immigration to Israel is for Jews only, public housing is for Jews only, army service is for the most part for Jews only, and a whole set of privelages have been legalized that allow Jews to enjoy rights denied to Palestinians Muslims and Chritians. Yes, Christian zionists do not forget 20-30% of Palestinians are Christians. Zionism has sucked the humanity out of Judaism and defiled the major tenants of Judaism. Do not forget that this has been financed, supported, and justified by Uncle Sam.

Arab and Jewish Peace and Unity will only come when zionism is destroyed and a new system prevails that promotes equality of both people. You can call Nelson Mandela's ANC a terrorist organization all day but you miss the point that if you do not recognize the real source of the conflict which was Apartheid!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Sasha Waite, Northamptonshire, England, U.K — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 14:07:34 GMT

What a tragic tale. Such young men so full of anger and hatred. When you know the history of Palastine and Israel you begin to understand the anger and frustration of the palastinian people. The British played a huge roll in the destruction of this beautiful nation and the Americans through backing the Israelis financially have sealed its fate! Is it not about time that we(British and Americans) started to challenge the Israelis over the building of new settlements and the breaking of numerous U.N resolutions. When Sadam Hussein broke U.N. resolutions we went to war against him. Why is it that we allow the Isrealis to do as they please? Is it really surprising that the palastinians react the way that they do? How will we ever have peace in the Middle East unless we do something drastic to change the situation? Excellent article good to read someone telling the side of the underdog for a change.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

M. Blum, NYC — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 14:18:52 GMT

Mr Fletcher could possibly write an equally sympathetic encounter with Osama Bin Laden. All he has to do is see the "human side" of terrorism.

This article is a disgrace. Israel has attempted to make peace with the Palestinians on hundreds of occasions, only to have murders and terrorist bombings continue.

Don't forget that Israel turned the Gaza Strip back to the Palestinians two years ago for their own self rule, only to see it deteriorate into a terrorist strong hold with daily missle attacks into Israel.

This type of "journalistic" story is not news, but a blatant attempt by an author with a belief that he wants to bring to his readers. Just call it terrorist propaganda and be honest. Quoting Arabs does not make what they say true.

Mr. Fletcher should be embarrassed at writing this article and should be somehow concerned about the implications of writing such a slanted emotional article.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Sherif, New York City — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 14:19:38 GMT

It is totally appropriate to say One man's terrorist is another man's freedom fighter.
Look at the American Revolutionary War, or Algerian War of Independance from France.
From your story, it is easy to see why Palestinians hate Israel.
The United Nations proposed a partition giving 1/3 of the population (the Jews) 1/2 of the land, and the 2/3 of the population the other 1/2 of the land. Arabs rejected that plan, so what the did the Zionists do? In the most anti-democratic of ways, they took the land by force, expanded "their land" beyond what the UN had allowed, created 700,000 refugees, and built a state that is for "Jews only".
If that's not apartheid, I don't know what is.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Tired of Israeli War Crimes Salem, Oregon — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 14:27:16 GMT

The Israelis are the instigators, the thieves, and by a very large margin, the murderers. Quassam rockets have killed 12 people in six years. The Israelis murder that many Palestinians on a slow day. Time for the US to cut the welfare checks to Israel until thewy sign the NPT, allow inspections of their WMD nuclear weapon sites and stop acting like the Nazis.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

jeff, Bridgewater NJ — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 14:28:51 GMT

It makes no sense when young terrorist Palestinian men shield themselves against the Isreali army in their family's homes. Fight for your cause/freedom as you see fit but to involve the innocense makes now sense. Also how about in any war show your colors(uniform) and/or flag. I find it hard to believe any civil army would just walk into a home and shoot their way just to eliminate a threat but since the Arabs don't show their true colors(uniform) no wonder why so many of the innocent die. Shame and sad but why bring on more trouble than you can handle.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Jim M., Columbus, Ohio — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 14:48:28 GMT

The conflict in the Middle East is based on Tribalism and religions defended blindly by people who without the education, upbringing, and inclination to step back and face the relities of our existence.
We are all animals destined to die, fundamentaly no different than dogs or other animals. If we all understood that this life is all we have, we would hopefully make the best of it, love each other more passionately, and make the most of the time we have. People who fight other peoples wars for them are fools.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Chris B, Phoenix — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 14:52:02 GMT

It's articles like this that are causeing us to loose the war on terrorism. Bombing innocent people is cowardly and evil. I don't care if the author thinks he's a nice guy, he's a TERRORIST, Don't paint him as anything else.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Nic, Gothenburg NE — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 14:52:37 GMT

I shake my head in amusement at this article. Funny how politically correct someone can become when sleeping with the enemy, only because they lack the balls to call it what it is. Suicide bombers are cowardly, cold-blooded killers that do not give regard to anyone. People will say, "Oh but look at the other side too." Yes, I do look at the other side. The one thing I do not see on the other side is them sending an army to a local club to murder innocent people. The only goal of a suicide bomber is to kill as many people as they can in one blast. Granted, innocents are killed on both sides, that is a cold fact of war. On the other hand, you have an army who is trying to suppress suicide bombers and other terrorists...with some unplanned civilian casualties. Grow a dong people, war is a fact of life. Is it terrible? Of course it is! The fact remains, however, that freedom isn't free. I want all you peace mongering people to realize that. Someday if our country is in trouble and needs people to stand up for it, I know who I can count on and who I cannot. I do not sympethize with a terrorist, they are what they are, unless they change.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

ana , NYC — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:00:01 GMT

The whole world is anti-semite, that was the reason to create the State of Israel, so that "jews" be confined in one place. The Jews and the palestians both were offered land and country by the world community, the UN, Israel accepted , the Arabs said NO, out of hate. Now, sixty years later, the fighting and killing continue. It is a tragic these two blood related neighbors can't live and share the land they love in peace. The Bible mentions Jews and Israel in the same sentence, the Arabs don't accept that reality.
I think it's clear which side is the just side.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Elliott Toronto Canada — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:12:28 GMT

re; lennox Morgan

Yes they where elected into govt, however thier first statement as members of this govt, was that they would not accept the right of israel to exist , now imagine if someone moved in next door to your home and immediately made it clear to you that you iether left your home or you would be killed for not leaving , would you do nothing , would you move or would you fight to protect yourself ? The Hamas govt is based on might is right < they feel if they kill enough people israelis and palastinians they will get what they want, when the fact is is the only way they will get what they want (peace: if thats what they really want ) is to aceept israel, and work with them to improve life for the palasinians and the only way this will happen is if the hamas govt stops it murdering & corrupt ways . Egypt is a perfect example , they also at one point in time didnt accept israels right to exist and with the aid of the russians (millitary equiptment) started wars with israel on a regular basis , Finally the egyptian govt decided to make peace with Israel and have normal relations with israel , and guess what ? IT WORKED !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now Hamas is going to have to do the same ,whether they will or not remains to be seen , but i do guarantee you one thing Israel will never pick up and leave because some one points a rocket at them and tells them to leave or die , no sir , They will fight for thier home land just like you would fight for your home against that nieghbour i mentioned to you earlier.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

DAVE,PHILADELPHIA,PA. — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:29:30 GMT

The Founding Fathers of America were the terrorists of THEIR day .its all in how you look at it.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:38:10 GMT

While it is sad, that this man died, he got what was coming to him. The irony is, these terrorists believe, that it is just to attack Isreal, because "an eye for and eye" is gods law. Then by that own logic, the Isrealis had every right to execute him.

The only difference is, this man was killed for his crimes. But by his hand, hundreds of inocents had lost his life. Who had nothing to do, with the politions who RE-ESTABLISHED the state of Israel after WW 2. This man is responsible for making bombs to kill people, responsible for coinvincing suicide bombers.

He would like to claim , that he is innocent, or that his actions were just. Yet his hands were covered with the blood of the innocent.

He was a man, decieved and manipulated by the devil. God rest his soul.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

M.L.portalto,texas — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:44:49 GMT

There is no place in society for suicide bombers. They not only take the lives of military and government officials, they take the lives of innocents caught up living in a war torn area of the world. One can not take the lives of innocents and expect sympathy for their cause from the rest of the world.

These wars in the Middle East have been going on for so many years it is as if fear and hatred is inbred in so many of these young people. By now it should be evident that war will not be a means to an end. Each group deserves to live in peace. The most logical choice to me would be to create a Zioist/Palistanian statehood and Flag. Allow each to believe in whomever they call God, and just give peace a chance. It may sound naieve but perhaps it would give a new generation a chance to grow old without the fear, hate, and prejudice in all the previous ones.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Carolyn Knaus, Eureka Springs, AR — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:53:50 GMT

Unless I am completely misinformed, I understand that thousands of well established Palestinians were forcibly moved from territory that the Allies ,after World War II, decided would be given to Israel, particularly because of so much displacement and suffering of the Jewish people during the war. Perhaps then,the modern source of all of this current agony in the region, is the WAY the territory was given. Perhaps THE PLAN after WWII was flawed and needed better thinking and better negotiations between all constituents at the time. I understand that the Jewish, Christian and Muslim people co-existed peacefully at the time of these MAJOR WORLD DECISIONS by the Allies. If this history is inaccurate, please correct me.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Nata E New York, New York — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:56:20 GMT

I do not want to repeat what was numerously said above, but a terrorist is a terrorist is a terrorist. Fight with open face, be brave, honorably challenge your enemy but don’t blow up kids that are going to school or women buying groceries. Be a soldier, fight as one and you will gain respect and people may believe in you. As for Ahmed being a good guy-please, don’t jerk me for tears of compassion! Many Nazis that invaded Europe, tortured and killed millions were great and respected fathers and often mothers, brothers and sisters and just loved ones back at home. Does that mean that the Russians should have checked their family history and their references from home? Ha-tell this to those who’s families never return home from the war and to those who’s families burned and starved to death in camps!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Paul — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:02:12 GMT

I am so tired of hearing about Isreal "occupying" Palestinian lands, seriously. They were attacked in 1967 by multiple Arab countries, beat back the assualt, and confiscated strategic territory to prevent further assualts. Granted that was 40+ years ago, but if you hit me with a baseball bat and I wrestle it away from you, I'm not going to simply hand it back to you so that I can be hit again. Thats foolish. And so is giving any credit to a young man who builds and straps bombs to willing participants' bodies to carry out suicide missions. He knew he was sending them to their own deaths as well as seeking to kill others - not soldiers either, mind you, but civilians riding buses and eating pizza on patios at Sbarro's. If he was so brave and courageous, why didn't he go himself? No wonder the people of Palestine are so messed up, all it takes is looking at what they idolize - down with America, down with the Jews! How about - its nice not being poor, its nice not starving? Don't blame us for your issues, blame your Arab neighbors for stirring up the pot and using you for their own agendas!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Tony Altar — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:07:09 GMT

Dear Mr. Fletcher,

A penetrating blog. The rocket attacks into Israel, and the even more dramatic stories about the exodus across the fence from Gaza to Egypt, are being well covered in the USA by NBC. Thank you.

Someday the fences will all be removed as the region learns to coexist in peace. From your blog, it sounds like that may be happening in the West Bank as Hamas and the malitias are joining police and other forces that, hopefully, will have a stake in cooperation and contribute to an enforcable peace. It would be good if in some way, those among "yesterday's men" could join a peacful future. As your article points out, however, it's hard to accept or forgive those who bombed and killed people. Perhaps a next step needs to be how to deal with "yesterday's men" in a way that most parties can accept.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

john doe, westerly ri — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:16:00 GMT

YOU CANNOT COMPARE THE AMERICANS OF THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR WITH TERRORISTS.

in the american revolution. the PATRIOTS-as some have labled "terrorists" did not and would not kill innocents. the BRITISH DID kill many many innocents.

they may have hid behind bushes-but they never said give up your right to exist or you will be killed. they would have welcomed any of the LOYALISTS to stay after the war and live in the UNITED STATES.

there is NO COMPARISON between terrorists of today and the patriots of the revolutionary war.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

David B., — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:35:46 GMT

Yup' Marty has it right. The bad guys are human, too. I mean - Hitler had a mom, right? And he had a favorite dog? Now that's human. He was a vegetarian, so he was an udealist. He also started a world war in which a few tens of millions of people were killed, but, well, nobody's perfect, right? One man's Nazi is another man's purifier of humanity. So here's to the freedom fighters, former allies to the Nazis, coming to a theater of operations in tall buildings near you... (FYI, and for those lacking the sense, these words were written in sarcasm/)

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Ric, Chicago, IL — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:45:03 GMT

When one is part and parcel of a group with "martyrs" in the name, one can expect nothing less than to fulfill its intent. Secondly, responders need to stop using ALL CAPS. Using all caps is akin to a terrorist act upon our eyes.
(signed)
former member of Grammar Police (GRAMPOL) Ric

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

OT — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:51:39 GMT

Mr. Fletcher,
Don't we all love stories about the poor, the miserable and the helpless fighting bravely against the evil forces? After all, star wars made millions out of this fairy tail story.
However, despite your article and despite the Palestinians poor efforts to convey themselves as sheep's at the slaughter and the Israelis as the 21st century Nazi Germany, there are few of us that still remember history.

Just to remind you that Palestinian butchering of Jews began more then 50 years before Israel became a state, when Jews were a small minority in the area. The "business" of killing Jews became more organized and systematic after the Balfour declaration of 1917 (dated November 2, 1917) which was a classified formal statement of policy by the British government on the partitioning of the Ottoman Empire in the aftermath of World War I.

The letter stated the position, agreed at a British Cabinet meeting on October 31, 1917, that the British government supported Zionist plans for a National home for the Jewish people within Palestine‎ WITH THE CONDITION THAT NOTHING SHOULD BE DONE WHICH MIGHT PREJUDICE THE RIGHTS OF EXISTING COMMUNITIES THERE.

THE JEWS AGREED, THE PALESTINIANS DID NOT. So what did they do? they started an organized campaign of killing helpless Jews (including women and children) everywhere with the intention of scaring the Jews away. For example, this campaign included events like the August 24, 1929, "Hebron Massacre" in which gangs of Arabs from Hebron committed a massacre the small Jewish community in their town. The results were the murdering of 67 DEFENSELESS men, women and children. This Jewish community was NOT an immigrant community but rather existed there for hundreds of years. THOSE ARAB WERE "FREE" AND NOT UNDER ISRAELI OCCUPATION, MR. FLETCHER!

Such atrocities against the Jews continued throughout the 20's, 30's and 1940's. ALL WHILE YOUR "SWEET" PALESTINIANS WERE "FREE" AND ISRAEL DID NOT EVEN EXIST!!!

So let us not get fooled by their lies that they are only doing this because of the "Israeli occupation"!!

Later, the NATION ARABS started the 1967 war. The armies of Egypt, Jordan and Syria attacked Israel with the clear intention of destroying it and "pushing the Jews to the see". (By the way, when was the last time Israel attacked any of its neightbours with the declaration that they will push them to the sea? NEVER!!) and Arabs lost the war!

Egypt lost Gaza and Sinai desert, Jordan lost the west bank, and Syria lost the Golan Heights. Israel, in agreement with resolution 242 of the UN, has ALWAYS offered the Arabs the territories back for gaining recognition and peace. The Egyptians agreed to it in 1978 AND GOT THEIR LAND BACK. The Jordanians agreed 1993 AND SOME LAND BACK. The Palestinians were offered and REJECTED it in 2000 when Arafat and Ehud Barak met with President Clinton in camp David.

Why did they reject it? Wasn't Arafat aware of the suffering of his people under israeli "occupation"? Aren't the Palestinians interested in peace? Don't they want to live FREE OF THE ISRAELI OCCUPATION in their own country? Yes, of course they are, but they are committed FIRST to something even bigger then that. The killing of all the Jews and their disposal from Israel!

So Mr. Fletcher, while you try so hard to cash on the David versus Goliath story, let us just put the facts straight. David is not a "freedom fighter" but rather a soldier in a terrorist army interested in occupying Israeli land. If your friends were really a freedom fighters, they would sign the peace agreement take the land of the west bank and Gaza and build a future for their people. But let's look at the facts, they are NOT interested in that. Shame on you for "buying" into their story!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Shlomo Rosenoer, Nachalat Har Chabad, Israel — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 18:09:35 GMT

Dear Mr. Fletcher! Please accept my condolences over the loss of your best friend Achmet.How terrible!

Dr.Shlomo Rosenoer, Israel

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Ed — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 18:24:06 GMT

Israel is a very small coutry about New Jersey size, Arabs ave millions of miles of territory, palestinians came from Jordan, Syiria and Eypt after Israel was attacked by tose nations (years 1948, 1956, 1967, 1973). Before te intifada or O.L.P. takin control palestinians lived in better conditions tan arabs livin in any arab country or nation, tey just want to eliminate Israel from te map, tey don't want peace, Israelis pay 4 Israel to provides Electricity, water, food, bulidin, etc... Palestinians fire rockets and send suicide bombers, Israel want's peace, Arabs never reconized Israel as a Country. Let's see wat would te US would do if all Mexicans tat live in California start firin rockets, send suicide bombers to every u.s. city and say California, Nevada, Texas, Arizona and New Mexico belons to tem, etc...

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

R7 — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 18:40:39 GMT

to Michael S. from Los Angeles, CA: As a jew sir, you should do the knowledge on the history of zionism and what this meant to the indigenous semitic population of palestine(muslim, christian and jewish). the palestinians DO understand! its been made crystal clear that they must engage in non-conventional methods of armed resistance against this political, military and economic juggernaut who came out of eastern europe and by british decree settled in palestine. These are the real anti-semites!...I for one with all my heart believe that the jews do deserve a homeland(though palestine has always been a home to them) just not by the bullying and intimidation and sanctioning declared by these ashkenazi jews under the banner of the star of david. lets not forget that the golden age of jewish history was under muslim governments and islamic law.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

1Friend — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 18:44:22 GMT

"It does not belong to man who is walking even to direct his step." Obviously humans will never bring peace to this planet. Our only hope is a God who will end evil; look for him, find him and obey him as if your life depended on it. He cannot be the God worshipped by terrorists or by governments, but is the God of peace whose worshippers refuse to learn war anymore and who will stand firm and see the salvation of God. HE will deliver from injustice; not they themselves killing while shrilling and claiming his name. A truly powerful God does not ask his people to kill for him; he asks his people to live for him.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Sam, Ft Lauderdale, FL — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 18:58:53 GMT

Isreal...the USA approved Natzi Party? Why is it always self defense when the Isrealies kill...however, it's terrorism when Isreal is being attacked...This would not happen if the Palestinians were given back what was taken from them (their land) and not being treated like caged animals.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

outcast, chicago ill — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:04:29 GMT

isreal is doing the same thing with palestinians that hitler did 2 them. DO ON 2 OTHERS.well soon america will find out what the germans know . that they are bloodsucking leetches. how come not 1 person talked about the innocent palestinina kids who are killed daily. all we hear about rockets laniding in isreal . ok why don't u tell me how many jews died in those rocket attacks.there are innocent palestinans dying everyday but all the media talks about is palestinians are the terrorist, in retrospect the biggest terrorrists are the u.s. & isreal

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Raphael, Greenville — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:28:21 GMT

It is all a matter of semantics, really.

If a Palestinian bomber blows up a bus full of Israelis with a home-made bomb, he is a terrorist killing civilians.

If an Israeli helicopter pilot blows up a Palestinian bus with a air-to-surface missile he is a soldier creating collateral damage on a failed mission to get a target.

I am sure he will have a terrible nightmares now... Yeah, right.

So, Israelis kill some Palestinian kids, now the friends of those kids blown up grow up a little bit and feel compelled to blow up some Israeli kids. As a result Israelis really do not loose any sleep over collateral damage on their missions. As a result some Pallestinian kids die, and their friends feel compelled...

And so it goes on...

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Rocky, Rochester, NY — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:36:57 GMT

There are certain religious elements (Osama etc.) in the Arab world who are not doing their people any good and in my book are terrorists, not only to us but their own people but not all are terrorists even if Israel defines them as such.

As history shows the European Jews attempting to occupy the Palestinian Territories (now Israel) after WW I killed English soldiers who were attempting to keep them out but they don’t record or speak of them as terrorists.

I often wonder just how we in the US would act if the Mexicans decided to occupy and take back Texas … by Israel standards they would have a right to Texas, after all it has only been about 150 years since we liberated Texas from Mexico and not 2000 years.

Hypocrisy abounds.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

jay baltimore — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 20:39:13 GMT

the Palestinians almost never have their side told. While here in the us a zionist religon is preached we fail to realize that Palistine is not even really the jewish homeland. Read their book it was clearly conquered aka stolen from others. Have we not realized after these 1000's of years that 1 the jewish/zionist culture is 1 of the worlds most violent and intolerable. 2 that the Palestinians deserve to have their home land back

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

James, Prescott, Az — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 21:47:48 GMT

Being clear minded I can say that if that if some Canadian or Mexican town was lobbing rockets into our country we wouldn't have half the patience the Israelis have shown.
Who are the terrorists? Your friends there. I hope Israel kills them all, all those who celebrate the death of a child and those who brainwash them with their murderous, anti-semetic, anti-Western ways.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Al Brackman — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 21:51:18 GMT

Israel should close all settlements and return the occupied territories that it took by force in 1967. It should compensate all Palestinians living as refugees in other countries if their former homes were located within Israel. Allow these refugees to return the new, viable Palistine and allow these poor people to live in peace and dignity. The world would be a better place to live.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Mendy — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 21:58:06 GMT

This is the height of outrageousness and offensiveness. Would Mr. Fletcher "understand" any less if the family in question were named Bin Laden?

There IS black-and-white good and evil here. Having a political grievance against an oppressor does NOT give you the right to attack that oppressor's innocent non-combatants. There's no moral equivalent. That's not "freedom fighting." That's TERRORISM.

Shame on you, Mr. Fletcher. You deserve to be called a lot of things now.

You need to tour Israel's hospitals to see the horrific victims of Arab terror. Those children and mothers were not attacking or threatening the Arabs in any way.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Wrong Analogy — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 21:58:25 GMT

Oh Boy.
One's man terrorist another man's freedom fighter.
It is irrelevant how each sides are naming the other.

What matters is what your tactics are:
If you primarily aim at civilians, you are a terrorist.
If you primarily aim at the enemy combatants, even with some civilian collateral damage, your are not. Period!
Otherwise you can say that Nazis were only defending their country against Allied invasion. Right? They were freedom fighters!?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Ziggy, Boston, MA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 22:12:33 GMT

What was it Golda Meir said ?????

Something like "there will never be peace until they love their own children more than they hate us" ???

Such hatred is an illness.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Darwin A., Orlando, FL — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 22:26:01 GMT

"It's confusing when you get too close to the story." It wouldn't be "confusing" if you, Mr. Fletcher, had an ounce of moral clarity. You ask your readers to sympathize with a family of "reluctant" bomb-making cowardly killers. Alla just wanted to go to school, eh? Who forced him to join a suicide death cult? What about the Israeli children, killed or maimed by his bombs? Didn't they want to go to school? What about Ahmed's fellow Palestinians, whom he dispatched on suicide missions, armed with his own bombs, who happily blew themselves apart?
The Palestinians have created a degenerate society which devours its own young in the name of "resistance." And you think this is "confusing"?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Canuck — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 22:28:34 GMT

Dave Philadelphia,

Last time I checked the Founding Fathers were not targeting innocent civilians to maximize terror and destabilize the existing order. Read your history.

Vaj in Mississauga - the only reason you have the right to the opinion you express is because of Canadian soldiers fighting religious facism in Afghanistan

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

A non-Jew who supports Israel! — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 22:44:10 GMT

Arabs are the terrrists who blow up innocent Jewish women and children ON PUROPOSE! Israel is on the side of good while the Arabs are on the side of evil. It is a black and white situation. The Jews have always acted in a civilized manner while the Arabs act like blood-thirsty savages.
Anti-Israel jerks who support the Arabs, Palestinians have never existed, are anti-semitc. It's clear whose at fault in this conflict.
I'm not surprised that Martin Fletcher supports terrorists because it's obvious by his reports from Israel that he hates Israel and the Jews.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Margie — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 00:09:58 GMT

So many comments make the statement that killing innocent civilians makes one a terrorist. But isn't that what the U.S. does all the time? Everytime we bomb a city, country or any area? We call it collateral damage, but the fact is innocent human beings are dying at our hands. And we know it and continue doing it with our eyes wide open. So based on the logic in many of these posts, we (the U.S.) are terrorists. You can sure bet the families of those killed think so!

I think the purpose of this article is simply to get people to think and broaden their perspectives of what is going on in the world. I think it does a good job of it.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

zuedi, bronx, ny — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 00:17:36 GMT

The title of your article is the same thing i have been saying since America invaded Iraq. To enetr someone's country and dictate what happans there, that country is a terrorist nation to the people that they have invaded. If we use the western worlds definition of terrorist there would have been no revolutionary war, che gueverra would be a terrorist and blacks would still be slaves. Viva Revolution!!!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

DWIGHT P. (WITTENBERG WI.) — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 00:19:01 GMT

Thou shalt not kill! (Murder He Wrote)

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Erik, Tampa, FL — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 00:19:52 GMT

This is pitiful. Another MSM whitewash of terrorists and their petty excuses using the consequences of their acts to justify the next act they take. It is incredible how such sorry excuses for journalists can actually be paid to do such reporting which is nothing but craven compliance with terrorism. NBC is in the same gutter as Al Reuters and Al AP.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

PALESTINE!!!! — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 00:40:00 GMT

It's funny how all the messages were posted but yet mine (the only Palestinian to post a comment) didn't get posted. This just shows what the media is leaving out. It leaves out our side of the story. Read through the messages and you will only find one post by a Muslim and I don't believe this is because no one decided to post, it's because you ignorant and unjust people do not want our word to be heard. Just wait til the day comes and we will both see who is right in the end. MAY ALLAH BLESS ALL MUSLIMS THAT HAVE PATIENCE WITH YOU PEOPLE! AND CALL US THUGS CUZ WE DO WHAT WE DO AND WE DO IT WELL! YOU ARE JUST ASHAMED OF YOURSELVES! AT LEAST US MUSLIMS CARRY SOME PRIDE AND SELF RESPECT! WE WALK WITH OUR HEADS ABOVE ALL!!!!!!! I'M NOT ASHAMED TO LEAVE MY NAME FOR YOU EITHER MEMORIZE IT AND NEVER FORGET IT>>>>HUDA HAYYEH

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

JCD, Indianapolis, IN. — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 00:40:31 GMT

Simply put, the author's moral equivocating is false. One man's terrorist....nonsense, freedom fighters don't blow up Israeli school children on their buses and they don't blow up pizzerias full of college students.
This is nothing more than another story about religious fanatics making life a living hell for an entire population.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Jen57 — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 00:42:59 GMT

"...and when you understand people, it’s hard to hate them'"

If you do not hate murderers, then you do not understand them.

One mans journalist is another mans terrorist propagandist. Maybe Fletcher should go see the family of the Israeli officer his freedom fighter killed. See if they like cell phones and have nice hair.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

M. Russell, Mattapan MA — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 01:58:39 GMT

Just like my African-American Nat Turner did the right thing,so did Alaa. They are fighting the 2nd best army the American tax payer can pay for. Keep fighting the those bastards

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Chris Clinton — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 02:21:30 GMT

Nowhere in this article does it state what the goal of the Arab terrorists is, which is the destruction of the State of Israel, because their religion teaches them to hate Jews. It is a shame amongst Arabs to have Jews occupy land that was formerly occupied by Muslims. Their defeat in the attempt to destroy Israel is referred to as the "Catastrophe". Yes, catastrophic that they failed to kill many Jews who by miracle survived the holocaust. They have been killing Jews well before there was a State of Israel. Mohammed, the father of this blood lust religion, killed most of the Jews in the Arabia.
It is because they hate.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Pantera, Chattanooga, TN — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 02:58:46 GMT

Question: was Timothy McVeigh a freedom fighter? Once you understand this question, I think you'll know why people don't like it when you write puff pieces about terrorists.

Also, If this kid had died the first time he was shot, how many more Israeli's would be alive? How many more Palestenians?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Dan — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:03:43 GMT

What a weak and pathetic society that reveres these cowardly mass murderers who blow up innocent women and children. These people are the fleas and maggots of modern civilization.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

amita sampat mumbai — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:09:24 GMT

mr fLETCHER

While i accept your story about fighting for justice and revenge the same cannot be applied to Islam. The root cause of any conflict involving Islam is allways the intolerance that Islam is built upon, Mr Flether, please read www.faithfreedom.org to understand exacly what Islam is and the main fact - that they will fight you and kill you even if you are good to them.

They will fight you and kill you because you are not Muslim

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Hanoch — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:15:50 GMT

So, Mr. Fletcher, "when you understand people, it's hard to hate them." There is nothing all that difficult here: a moral person hates evil; one who condones it or excuses it is immoral. Your terrorist friends are the same type of scum that murdered, Tali Hatuel, a pregnant mother, and her four little daughters. These are not "freedom fighters"; they are demented butchers who are the ideological heirs to Hitler and the Nazis. What a shame that otherwise intelligent people find it so difficult to perceive what is right in front of their face.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Ryan McManus — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 05:39:44 GMT

Life is about choices. My friend who is a Palestinian came from a similar background. One of his brothers chose violence and died violently. My friend was guided by a strong father that said go and make a difference by educating yourself and contributing something positive to humanity. That's what he did by vcoming a health professonal. Today, he works under some brutal conditions helping Palestinians. The point being that one cannot make a difference when one is dead. It is better to build and to help than to destroy. The subjects in your story chose violence and received it's product: A violent death.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

David M, Cranston, RI — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 06:34:26 GMT

Tali Hatuel was 34 years old and eight months pregnant when shot by Palestinian terrorists in her car. Her four daughters, aged 2 to 11, were shot in the head at point blank range. The Palestinians routinely kill civilians and claim that they are legitimate targets. These people are not freedom fighters.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Suzanne — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 07:04:29 GMT

I am wondering why you call it "a refugee camp" in Nablus? What makes it a refugee camp in your opinion? On the picture I see a house and not a tent ;)

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Kate S, London, UK — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 09:52:00 GMT

Never in a million years would Martin Fletcher dare to refer to the 9/11 terrorists as "freedom fighters". Nor would he ever describe those who kill American troops in Iraq or the London or Madrid bombers in such terms. Only when it comes to the murder of Jews in Israel do journalists make such statements.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Clas, Sweden — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 10:42:57 GMT

Unlike you I have no sympathy at all for Palestinian terrorists. Do you call a person who targets and kills civilians, i.e. women and children, a freedom fighter? Ahmed was a terrorist and is best dead where he can do no more harm. Why don't you spend some time in the Jewish town Sdrot to find out what it feels like to live under constant rocket attacks?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Al. Richmond, VA — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 10:56:51 GMT

Every terrorist must be hunted down and killed, you can not appease genocidal maniacs you must fight them.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 11:56:23 GMT

Why is it so difficult to distinguish between terrorist murderers and those who only defend themselves against that terrorism? You've lost your moral compass!

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Dave L, Rochester, NY — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 13:24:11 GMT

Didn't the New York Times think that Stalin was a nice guy?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Bil Don, Haifa, Israel — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 13:25:45 GMT

I guess for you everything justified the carrier, Is Hitler a good source, why not? everything is OK in order to make a dollar and write a book.
My son 17 years old was killed in Haifa on his way bcak from school, you will celebrate your book, On march 5th I will remember 5 years with out him.

Shame on you!

Li Bond, Blondi's father
www.Blondi.co.il

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Greg — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 13:51:46 GMT

Good riddance! I don't know which is more disgusting, the actions of these alleged "freedom fighters" or how readily you'll bend over backwards in an effort to defend them. Honestly, what causes that? Egotism? A desire to seem important by knowing wanted criminals? Maybe a touch of the lead poisoning?

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Osmani, Miami FL — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 13:52:35 GMT

Do freedom fighters kill and maim innocent women and children? No, they are cowards and murderers and referring to these terrorists as any type of "fighter" is nauseating.

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Ed Gottschick — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:31:06 GMT

Expressing concern over this extremely fragile humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, American Cultural Ambassadors David and Renate Jakupca commented from the ARK in Berea that "Living standards in Gaza are at levels that are unacceptable in a world that promotes the elimination of poverty and the observance of human rights as one of its basic core principles."
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) must deal with the Israel blockade."

One man's terrorist, another's freedom fighter

Ross, Toronto — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:05:49 GMT

If Israel had nothing to lose, it would continue to occupy Palestinian land and will never leave. The only language that Israel understands is resistance, that's why it left Southern Lebanon, that why it left Gaza. If Olmert really wanted peace, his first action to restarting negotations after Bush left the Middle East wouldn't be to bomb Gaza and indiscriminantly kill innocent Palestinians. Israel is occupying Palestinian land. The Palestinians want their freedom just like any other people in the world, and are willing to do whatever it takes to get their rights. End the Occupation!