Are we at peace?

I’d like to know what readers think about terrorist threats. President Barack Obama on Thursday announced, “Our systematic effort to dismantle terrorist organizations must continue. But this war on terrorism, like all wars, must end. That’s what history advises. It’s what our democracy demands.”

It’s not clear whether these comments represent policy decisions or are mostly rhetorical, but Republicans responded on TV talk shows yesterday.

Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas), chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, on CNN: “[President Obama said the terrorist] threat now is what is was before 9/11. I couldn’t disagree with him more on that.”

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) on Fox News: “At a time we need resolve the most, we’re sounding retreat. … I’ve never been more worried about our national security.”

What’s your opinion? Is the war on terrorism nearly over? When will it end? What advice and demands do history and democracy offer?

WORLD subscribers can leave their comments below, or write to webeditor@worldmag.com.