Terrorism: The New Form of Warfare

Short history lesson:

The League of Nations, which was formed in 1919, ostensibly in an effort to promote disarmament and prevention of a Second World War. The only unification achieved by this organization was between imperialistic powers who wanted to have the upper hand as far as colonization was concerned. The whole concept was on the basis of a raw deal given to the 'losers' of World War I, especially Germany. What did it lead to? Germany came back with a bang.. and World War II ensued.

After WWII, the Allied forces ensured that the axis powers remain as oppressed as they could possibly could. The United Nations, a seemingly successful organization which took over the role after the failure of the League of Nations, has its own share of controversies. It would be difficult to comment upon its success in peacekeeping all over the world, as the role of UN is, unfortunately, fairly passive.

Its a sad fact of society, while greed is a cardinal sin, the powerful are allowed to be ruthlessly greedy. And who will object to them? Its a world where the resources are plundered in one part, while others go without the bare necessities of life. Americans constitute 5% of the world's population but consume 25 percent of the world's energy. Therefore, on an average, 1 American consumes as much energy as 2 Japanese, 6 Mexicans, 13 Chinese, 31 Indians, 128 Bangladeshis, 307 Tanzanians, or 370 Ethiopians. Isn't that an eye opener?

Decades may have passed since the last World War, and the UN may take credit for it. But state sponsored terrorism is obviously the latest trend, especially since it has so many advantages over a traditional all out war.

• Its more cost effective.
• Recruitment of 'soldiers' from the local population is possible.
• Diplomatic relations can be maintained, by simply stating no involvement!
• The UN cannot take any action against the alleged perpetrator.

What is most unfortunate is that the only 'legal' way to retaliate would be resorting to similar guerilla tactic terror strikes, in parts of the country which are most vulnerable, and attacking civillian populations in the process. Sickening..

The current invasion of Pakistani troops across the LOC, seems surprisingly well orchestrated with the terror attacks on Bangalore and Ahmedabad. The Surat bombs are also being regarded as a red herring. Its disturbing to think that our neighbour has stooped to such lows.. But what's even more disturbing is the presence of nuclear capabilities in a country with an administration this unstable, and a conscience seemingly non-existent...