The Italian hostages (Reuters)
Now that they control Spain's foreign policy, the jihadists are attempting to gain control of Italy's as well. Their attempt to exact tribute from Berlusconi seems to have fallen through, and now they say that the freedom of the Italian hostages rests on the size of antiwar protests in Italy. From Reuters, with thanks to Diana Applebaum:
ROME (Reuters) - Italy's government and opposition leaders refused on Tuesday to bow to demands by kidnappers in Iraq who have threatened to kill three hostages unless Italians protest against their country's military presence there.But relatives of the hostages pleaded with Italians to help set the men free and participate in rallies on Wednesday and Thursday, not to denounce the government but to call for the release of the three Italian security workers. ...
Leaders from across the political spectrum rallied around Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi's center-right coalition, vowing Italy would not give in to blackmail.
"We, who were against the war, are completely opposed to any negotiation with kidnappers and terrorists. The government is continuing to work with seriousness and discretion for the release of the hostages," said Francesco Rutelli, leader of the center-left Daisy party.
Berlusconi's office said in a statement the government was doing all it could to secure their release.
But families and friends of the private security workers abducted two weeks ago said there was no time to lose.
"I'm asking that all the mothers and fathers in Italy do everything they can so that our boys can come home," said Angelo Stefio, the father of one of the hostages. "We need everyone."
Marches are being organized in the captives' hometowns for Wednesday and in Rome on Thursday, but it was not clear how much support they would get.
"Now that they control Spain's foreign policy, the jihadists are attempting to gain control of Italy's as well"
Do not forget that the Spanish people were very much against having troops in Iraq even before the bombings.
Curious Citizen,
Yes, but the terrorists certainly don't see it like that. To them, bombing Spain got the result they wanted.
Were the Spanish people also against sending troops to Afghanistan, because that is also part of the terrorists demands.
Forza Berlusconi!!!
The free world is with you.
Luciano
The kidnapping terrorists have demanded rallies. In as much as rallies occur, whether in to ask for the release of the prisoners or for the removal of Italian troops from Iraq, the jihadists will become further emboldened. if rallies do occur as part of this test to see how much they can manipulate group behavior in their favor in perceived center of Christendom.
Hmmm... Although Spain caved in the first time, it seems that the bullies are continuing to turn the screws, further expecting favorable results. My hope is that it will become as plain as day to the Spaniards that they made a mistake in capitulating to these demands and that it does the opposite of what the Jihadi's think. Perhaps if they overreach their hand (the jihadis) Spain will wake up and begin to push back. All of this could result in an awakening if the elements are cooked together in the proper fashion.
To all of those deaf and blind somnambulists in Europe and the West in general, counting on gross appeasement to keep the blade from your throats, let me repeat the words of Comrade Trotsky: "You might not be interested in war, but war is interested in you".
Pretend that this isn't a struggle to the death, against an implacable, mortal enemy, but please don't be surprised when the scimitar falls on your necks. Oh, and thanks a million for bringing that dreadful day closer.