The US military has literally been in the front line of George W. Bush's 'war on terrorism'. It has proved to be a difficult, dangerous and sensitive role.
More than two years after the invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq, the presence of US troops continues to stir emotions - and provoke violence. The recent riots in Afghanistan serve as a reminder of the risks involved. Sixteen people have died in the worst anti-American protests in Afghanistan since the US-led invasion to topple the fundamentalist Muslim Taleban government in October 2001.
The US forces, along with those from other countries, are seeking to provide the security needed in order for fragile democracies to develop. Dictatorial regimes in the two countries have been overthrown and the foundations of democratic governments put in place. But the costs have been high.
Insurgents in Iraq continue to take a terrible daily toll in lives. Meanwhile, the eruption of violence in comparatively peaceful Afghanistan serves as a reminder of the need for the greatest sensitivity to be exercised, especially where religion is concerned.
The US has struggled to recover the moral high ground in Iraq, despite the warm international response to successful elections there in January. The invasion took place without United Nations' support and on the pretext of weapons of mass destruction, which have never been found. The Abu Ghraib prison scandal prompted outrage. And the more recent allegations of similarly provocative conduct at the US military prison in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, was the catalyst for the Afghan riots.
Allegations that copies of the Koran, were flushed down toilets at Guantanamo Bay are the latest setback. Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi at the weekend called the alleged desecration of the Koran saddening and a humiliation to Muslims. His remarks followed similar comments from the Arab League.
The United States has tried to calm the outrage, saying disrespect for the Koran is abhorrent and will not be tolerated, and that military authorities are investigating the allegations, made in Newsweek magazine on May 9. Yesterday's announcement by the magazine that its report may have been wrong, may have come too late to repair the damage.