Ernst Von Liedecker: get your facts together!

"Some people here in the US and over the pond denied what Hitler was up to in the late 1930's. Then he unleased Hell, and we were united against a very evil person."

Ah, the classic 'we are the heroes, be thankful' approach.

The US did not enter WW2 voluntarily, but stayed neutral until Pearl Harbor was bombed This was December 7, 1941. The Invasion of Poland was 2 years earlier in 1939!

The U.S had no reason to enter the war before the attacks on Pearl Harbor. They were letting Russia and Germany fight the war themselves.

The US entered war against Japan and did not, repeat not, declare war on Germany. However, a few days after Pearl Harbor, Hitler declared war on the US, thereby putting an end to the US dilemma.

Ethan, California,

I belive the stats show that the radical Islamists construe a percentage of a fraction of 1% of the Islamic world. About the same as the Neocon warmongers in this country.I say we should just let them find out how evenly matched they are on their own. It would be beneficial if everyone would draw the conclusion that EVERYTHING is bs and run with that,but then some people might have to think.I will write in Ron Paul in November otherwise I will have to vote for myself.

Mary, Chicago,

You forgot to mention the most important part of the story - candidate Ron Paul who won the debate with 32% of the vote !!! Is this what journalism has come to ?!?! I can see YOU didn't waste ANY money getting YOUR journalism degree. This is abysmally bankrupt journalism here folks !!! Nothing to see here. Move along folks, it's just more MSM propaganda.

erinzdad, Las Vegas, NV

What those who would not confront Iran are missing in their analysis, is that Israel will act if the US does not. Imagine what would result from that.

The time for the US to stand by and let the world burn ended in 1917. Withdraw and appease at your own peril.

Jerry Racioppi, Scottsdale, AZ, USA

The only people who want war in this world are the Bush Administration. I think it's pretty crappy when a few people are calling the shots for the World as far as doomsday goes. Iran doesn't want war, nobody does. I pray America gets smart again and ousts this bunch of war criminals and greed mongers. The Foreign Policies and the lack of diplomacy with your current administration and the rest of the World is bordering on insanity. Get rid of the Republicans, as they are going to do us all in.

sherry, nanaimo, canada

I'm pleasantly surprised at the tough words uttered by Thompson and Huckabee. I was beginning to they think that they were just as weak and cowardly as Bush and the democrats when it comes to foreign policy. We must be ready to annihilate Iran since most of the rest of the world would rather appease the jihadists, much like the naive appeasers prior to WW2, and get us all killed as a result.

Jeremy Thomas, Mobile, USA

Mr. Huckabee, there are many beautiful Iraqi's who share you very faith. The Christian population in Iraq suffers much persecution. Where is your reasoning? And why are you speaking Christianese in such an inflammatory way, such as to put these people at more risk?

Marilyn Carriere, Red Wing, MN

Stupid white men still trying to scare red state America.

It's all they have to offer...

F.S.Sumers, N.Y.,

The coup when our CIA took over the democratically elected Mossadeq in Iran and replaced him with the bloody but US-friendly Shah was actually in 1953. Look, everyone can laugh all they want and watch fox news, but you gotta at least admit Ron Paul is correct when it comes to foreign policy.

Devon, anaheim, ca

Huckabee's teeth are revolting. Who the hell could run for POTUS with a mouthfull of garbage like that? McCain is too old. Romney is best even though he's a Mormon.

sandy, schaumburg, IL

The news media is doing everything posible to silence Ron Paul. This article doesnt even say his name. The Foxnews online poll after had Mr Paul as the winner.

Jeff, Houston, US, TX

Lets see 1, 2, 3, 4...... We seem to have left out comments about one of FIVE canidates at the debate..... Pathetic.

LtPiper, Charleston,

There was one other candidate that was in the debate that you completely disregard. The only one with a sane policy on Iran and the rest of the world.
Your publication is shameful.
Go Ron Paul 2008

EDN, spring mount, usa/PA

Wake up America! We need Ron Paul. We've been kept passive and fat long enough! It's time.

Sheila Fox, Hazlet, NJ

Wonder if Huckabee knows where Australia is? Or would he mix it up with Austria?
George Bush still has trouble that way. While at the APEC conference in Sydney last year, he congratulated the Australian Prime Minister for his recent visit to Iraq, to visit the "Austrian" troops.
If he decided to bomb Austria, we would be getting it here.

margie, victoria, australia

The exclusion of Dr. Paul in this article tells everything.

dan farrell, ballwin,

How wonderful of these yahoos to invoke the senile president,
Ronald Reagan... Did the 'prolife' Gov. Huckabee favor Mr. Reagan's 'Contra' mercenaries, with their drug dealing, rape, torture, murder & 'dissapperance by death squad' legacy?? Or perhaps the 'undeclared war' nature of the millions of tax payer dollars given to various south American dictatorships would be renewed under the 'mormon-christian' policies of a
'Romney' presidency? Hey, in the wake of the U.S. 'useury-mortgage' scandal, (currently threatening the world's economy), perhpas Sen. McCain could bring back his old friend, Charles Keating, the (disgraced) evengelical - banking fraudster, so as to make sure 'family values' are observed while thousands of families are evicted over the rest of this winter...
Yeah, the Republicans are just what America needs...NOT!!!!!

R.G. Frano, A.C.L.S., Jersey City, NJ, USA

We're doomed...

Randy, Rogers, Arkansas US

And the exclusion of Ron Paul from the "debate" speaks volumes.

Bob, Dallas, TX

Save for Paul, this whole group is nuts! The last thing the US needs again is a lot of macho bravado. Iran really knows how to play Republicans. The extreme factions of Iran live for confrontation and they know the extreme factions of the US are easy to goad into a fight, which of course empowers the Iranian leadership.
They say this election is about the economy now, and it probably is to the majority of the nearsighted electorate, but international relations and the foreign policy are in dire need of correction. My kingdom for Joe Biden, but at the very least a sensible democrat.

Bruce T, Boston, MA, USA

Hi, if McCain wore one of his bandaids on his face like 50cent does, he would surely shore up some votes.

bobby P, san jose,

someone ought to tell senator fred that the 70 virgin muslim schtick is held by a tiny number of suicide bombers.....NOT THE IRANIAN NAVY...is there anything these guys wouldnt say to get elected.....how about public executions....marty bauer los angeles

martin bauer, los angeles, ca

Giuliani: He plays Florida spider to the rest of the field. Spiders generate noi momentum.
McCain: He's been straddling both parties for years grooming himself for the job. You have to put yourself before the party to do that. (Also has GOMS . . . see Thompson)
Huckabee: Dont' let that nice man touch the popcorn popper! Christian leader! (What is that exactly? It's ID politics. Not what real Christians . . . Golden Rule anyone? . . . do.
Thompson: No one spouts generalities with as much banality. Has GOMS (Grouchy Old Man Syndrome)
Romney: Bad, bad year for capitalists. Should have brought Hulk Hogan to the tag-team debates.

Clay , Unk, Iraq

I think the debate gave Fred Thompson some real positive numbers. He not only looked presidential, but he has a logical way about his discussions that make sense. I use to like Huckabee, but now am leaning towards Thompson or Romney. The ideal ticket would be Thompson/Romney. That would serve America well and defeat any democrat.

Vince Hugh, Atlanta, Ga

Very scary stuff this. Nonsense like that spouted by Fred Thompson is not reasoned or considered opinion and shows a real lack of knowledge of the region and of Islam in general. Fortunately I can't see any of these candidates troubling Clinton or Obama when the time comes.

Jonathan Main, Kuwait City, Kuwait

HUCKA-EVIL is a warmonger just like Bush.

Nothing will change no matter who gets elected. Democrat or Republican, they are all the same. Career politicians are famous for saying what everyone wants to hear, but when they get elected, nothing changes.

The only one that has a clue is Ron Paul.

Dan, Palmdale, USA, California

The problem is that talk is talk. It is hard to believe that Huckabee would be hard on anybody, foreign or domestic when he pardons and commutes the sentences of 1000+ convicted criminals, some of which went on to commit more horrible crimes.

chris, nevada city, ca

I have met the Gates of Hell, and it are us.

--- Pogo in Purgatory

And just to keep things in perspective, Iran maybe having a nuke in 5-10 years in a region flush with nuclear armed states is not quite the equivalent of the full industrial might of Germany pouring across Europe. What's the last country Iran has invaded and occupied?

And how long ago was that 1954 CIA coup that overthrew a democratically elected government and installed the bloody but US-friendly Shah and setting the stage for his violent overthrow? Too long ago for most Americans to remember evidently.

Jeffrey King, Visalia, California

Ronald Reagan was once considered unelectable. people should rethink their stance on Huckabee as well.

Mark , Lake Stevens, WA

Robert - IF Huckabee was so comfortable in his "own skin", then why is it that everything he claims to have done in Arkansas is at odds with little things like his actual record?

Megan, Jacksonville,

I don't know about the rest of you but I have a tough time taking Huckabee serious. He is atrocious on international affairs. Has no clue. If you think Bush was bad, this guy is retarded. At first I though Huckabee would be a legitimate candidate but every time he opens his mouth, I run.

Mike, Bismarck, ND

I am in no way condoning Huckabee, in fact i can't stand him.

To "Dean Mapaba". Sickening? Sickening is the lack of backbone of your country and the people in it. Sickening is the toppling of your social structure to the Muslims of the middle east and Africa. Sickening is your reluctance to acknowledge the problems at hand in a world. Sit tight like you did in the 1930s, and surely enough your day will come when you realize that your concern for political correctness led to your own defeat. Or maybe, just maybe, you,your country, and the mess that has become Europe, can only get through the day by ignoring the return of the caliphate that taunts you like a dangling sword above the head of every Brit. Interesting, in 2008 the name Mohammad is projected to become the most popular name in England and Whales. Maybe you should buy your burkha now. FRED THOMPSON 08'

mike, eastchester,

Shame on you for not writing a single line on Dr. Ron Paul. Especially after such an outstanding debate last night. Such biased and shoddy journalism should not be tolerated. You and all of your fellow conspirator should be fired!

Despite the moderator's blatant and unwarranted attempt at discrediting Dr. Paul as being "unelectable", he still decisively won FOX's debate pole which was decided by the public. (utube it.) Unelectable? Please.

This conspiracy is so obvious it needs another name.

David Grieco, Bethesda, USA/MD

Neil from London

The "stats" on the NHS are pretty gruesome. Every other week there is some horror story about the NHS, including worst cancer survival rates in Europe. The US has mostly the highest survival rates.

Cheerio

Mary Catherine, Elmhurst, US/IL

Ron Paul...Hmmmm...Ross Perot?

Terry , Maricopa, USA / Arizona

Not a single mention of Ron Paul in this article about the debate. Pro or con. The omission of his name speaks volumes about the establishment's true agenda!

Eddie, Phoenix, USA/AZ

Ahhhhhhh, the peace of the gospel of Jesus Christ from his loyal
servant hucksterbee. forgive your enemies, do good to those that
hate you, ahhhh what peace and love and forgiveness.

mims jenkins, warsaw,

Why is there no mention of Dr. Ron Paul or his comments at this debate?

C. Attocks, St. Paul, USA

Iran has threatened to drive the Jewish state into the sea. I believe them. Dialogue with Islamic radicals is useless, Allah has not given them the right to negotiate. This has nothing to do with Christianity. Love your neighbour, yes, but be naive, no.

Paul, Bridgewater, New Jersey

I have a hard time imagining what could make me vote for Hillary, but Ron Paul as the Republican nominee would do it.

Lynn Brant, delaware, OH

After all the huff and puff, recent reports say that they are not sure now that the speedboats were Iranian. Also, that the message that sounded like a threat, could have come from one of the American boats.
Sounds like another Gulf of Tonkin fake to me.

margie, victoria, australia

Does Huckabee know where Iran is?

Mike, Clearwater, Florida

I also served in the Navy overseas and lived in Saudi Arabia for 3 years. Those boats are always there. There is a protocol for dealing with them. This was just a little out of the ordinary because of the radio call but the on scene guys made a judicious call. It would be my opinion that some Iranian on radio watch but within visual range and bored nearly got his buddies killed. They don't have anything near what we practice in the way of radio discipline.

Even if we had killed them it would merely be a "whoops" moment. We have shot the crap out of the Iranians on a couple of occassions including the mistaken downing of an Iranian Airbus. When Iran insisted on mining international waters we boarded and captured her minelayer and then sank it.

And later we bombed and sank a significant portion of her Navy and shot up a couple of oil platforms that were hosting some of the speedboat guys. That did not lead to a wider war but put the Iranians on notice as to our resolve.

Donald Freeman, Mechanicsburg, PA, USA

Didn't mention RON PAUL. Who was the candidate who dictated the tone for the debate. Because the media is blocking him you should visit his page at www.ronpaul2008.com and see why this elitist media has a blackout on him.

Dr. Ron Paul is a constitutionalist, and stands for freedom.

http.www.ronpaul2008.com

Borisimo, Miami, FL, USA

No mention of Ron Paul. Pathetic.

It's almost laughable how the mainstream media is doing its best to marginalize the one candidate (Paul) who is making sense on most of the issues, especially the Middle East.

I only wish Dr. Paul was 52 years old instead of 72, so he would be around longer to continue getting his message out.

Fran, Baltimore, MD

Dear Jeff,
Our socialized medicine means EVERYONE regardless of income gets health care AND that the cost to the average citizen is far less than you guys with your cockamamie health insurance-based system pay! Read the stats-cheerio!

Neil, London, England

To TOMCAT:
FACT: as usual, American-bashers blame the U.S., regardless of who is at fault.
FACT: you are an American-basher
FACT: perhaps you'd be more comfortable living somewhere else

tony, baltimore, md

Republicans know national security and our interests worldwide trump all the leftist anti- capitalist/anti-US socialist garbage. Long live Pax Americana.Attack the US or our allies and interests and indeed you will face certain annihilation.
Sic Semper Tyrannis
In hoc signo vinces

Markus Taylor, New York City, USA,NY

Please...pull your heads out of your behinds about Iran. Near sightedness of Germany created problems for us and the world before WWII. If Iran is ignored and they create nuclear weapons and USE them the world will cry "where was America" .

Terry Beetler, USA / Arizona

Terry Beetler, Maricopa, USA / Arizona

Yeah what about Dr. Ron Paul?

John Walker, holly springs, nc

how do we know neal king is from germany? or his name is neal? or that he's not being held hostage in libya?

Biff, Righthere, US/TX

A trigger happy president would be a tool of Satan. Instead of pandering to the "thumbs up/ thumbs down" rabble in the Colosseum, more statesmanlike answers should have been offered. Ron Paul got it right: we don't need to cheer on WWIII.

JKV, Coeur d'Alene, ID

Ron Paul will NEVER be nominated...quit wasting your lives.

J. Hanson, Madison, WI

Dear Dean Mabapa from the UK, please mind your own business, no one is asking your opinion as a foreigner. Your country is going to go down the tubes from Islamic aggression, you ought to solve your own problems first before you judge the U.S. P.S. Our U.S.S. Cole was destroyed from a little boat such as the ones with which the Iranians tried to taunt us.

lc, north wales, pa

Yeah, the Iranian navy poses a huge threat. Give me a break.

FZ, Edinburgh, UK

Some of the liberal posters here have a conveniently poor memory. No one took seriously the harmless little boat that blew a hole in the side of the USS Cole and killed 17 sailors (on Bill Clinton's watch). It seems that you'd prefer a repeat of that incident than to irritate Iran by allowing our Navy to defend itself.

Larry, Seattle, USA

Prediction? Huckabee to pip McCain and Obama to beat Hilary, with Edwards getting a decent share of the vote.

Ben, York,

There are six Republican contenders still in the race and who participated in the debate. Get a clue.

mattjew, Granite Bay, CA

Ron who??????

bryan, Los Angeles, CA

When Huckabee discussed the fate of Iranians who might target a US Navy ship, he use terms Amadinijad shoudl be able to understand. Perhaps even respect. My question: Are Huckabee and Amadinijad two peas in a pod?

Bob, Norman, OK

The Ron Paul thing is an interesting phenomenon. He is discredited by the media and largely ignored. I believe in Ron Paul's ideas, and will vote for him in the Missouri primary. However, many people tell me they agree with him but dont want to "waste" their vote. You can't waste your vote if you're voting for who you agree with. If people actually voted for who they wanted, as opposed to who the media is telling them can possibly win, these primaries could look completely different.

N L Woodrum, saint louis, missouri

Typical Republicans. They just love spewing that vile crap and invoking 9/11 as the reason to try & take over the world. Sometimes being an American is a lesson in humility.

Brandon, Chicago, IL

Huckabee responded with unnecessary and overly-bellicose rhetoric more reminiscent of a disillusioned minister than a statesmen. Thompson responded by suggesting all Iranian servicemen are terrorists. It's hard to love the electoral process especially when people cheer for this brand of dangerous, uneducated rhetoric. More than six years after 9/11 and two unfinished wars later, Americans should know better.

Matt, Ocean County, New Jersey

God save us from the liberal media, weak Democrats, and militant Islam. Because nobody on the left seems interested in it...and they will weaken us to the point of no return.

Daniel, Trenton, USA

blah blah blah from warmongers. I guess these guys want to see a global oil crisis through cutting off the Strait of Hormuz(which Iran would do if attacked.) Shortsighted fools rarely notice that the bridge ahead is out when their going full speed guns blazing.

Brent, Richmond,

IRAN IS AN ENEMY......

well some of us prefer to feed ourselves instead of having our mommies cut our steaks into bite sized little pieces. Call it finger food, but to say its as simple as vilifying an entire landmass is a little childish. But American politics like is voters seen and not heard. Do as they say, but not as they do. Because they're older and they know better. And daddy does indeed know best.

America's enemy..well which America. America, the People? The government? America, the economic superpower? The enemy of the people is most certainly not Iran, perhaps certain members of the Iranian government would qualify. To be honest, the issue is a hell of a lot more complicated than what some presidential hopeful can fit into a positive sounding soundblurb. Anything less than the total truth is an absolute lie, And "IRAN is the ENEMY" has not one bit of truth to it.

Sam the Sham, Arlington, VA

I totally agree with Helen. That comment by Huckabee will probably propel him straight into the White House. He received the loudest cheer of the debate, and Americans will love it! Gotta say smart on his part, he knows what to say. Starting wars and fear-mongering appears to be the way to go South of the border.....

Jason, Toronto, Canada

I guess a Brit's answer would be - "If you attack our Navy, be prepared to see our Ambassador because we will want to TALK about it". Pitiful, Pitiful

Peter Haskett, SanFrancisco,

Despite all the snickering by the neo-con morons in the crowd, Ron Paul is the only person with a rational political philosophy. Fox News and their in-resident neo-con, Sean Hannity continues their shabby treatment of Ron Paul.

Personally, I hope Ron Paul runs on the Constitution Party ticket, takes votes away from the republicans, and gives the election to whatever nut case from the democratic party gets the nomination.

DONALD FAHRENKRUG, COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO

In ference to the comment by Dean Mapaba.....On SEptember 11, 2001 2 airplanes were deliberately flown into the World trade center towers. the whole world cheered.Guess what.....There should be MANY countries right now that we are not occupying them or staring into at the pretty ornage colors.

dave, Cypress, California

Dear Carole, Huntington, West Virginia:
Do you remember the USS Cole? Do you remember what happened to it, how many Americans were killed? Do you remember what was used by the terrorists to accomplish this?
Of course you don't. Thank God folks like you aren't responsible for protecting America.

David M. Bugg, East Wenatchee, America, Washington

Strange no mention of Ron Paul when he was probably the most entertaining and brought to the table a totally different point of view.

Jim Sweeney, Phoenix,

Ron Paul had the most intelligent comments and it was clear that the Fox News moderators set out to belittle his views from the start. His viewpoints are solidly grounded in sound economic theory. It's disappointing to see how few Republicans see this.

Jibin Park, Buena Park, CA

The approaching vessels may have raised concern aboard the US warships, but were likely treated as a curiousity more than a threat. The Iraninan speedboats recognized that if they got too close, there would be no warning shot, just a thorough and efficient killshot. It is like Kabuki theater, all the players moving about, with the conclusion preordained, and in this showing, all players would go home safely. It is only the warmongers and politicians attempting to whip up emotions, so that the real issues can be ignored.

bob, california,

5 candidates? You really should learn how to count. Ron Paul is ahead of Giuliani and Thompson in votes so far but I guess the media has made it its mission to try to discredit him. Why is the media so afraid of Ron Paul? I thought the US was supposed to be a democracy where everyone got a fair chance.

David, Yonkers, NY

I find it amazing that many of these posts claim that the US is "on the brink of war" or "we're ready to start WW III." Lost is the simple fact that a US warship, when intentionally provoked, DID NOT fire or take any aggressive action other than to issue a warning to the small craft. The US has, and continues to exercise great restraint on a daily basis in the face of many such instances. If we really wanted to be at war with IRAN, then we would be right now. The fact of the matter is that the US does not want war and will take all steps possible to avoid it....until our hand is forced. Lighten up all you doomsday prophets.

Jon, Navarre, FL

Dean is just another person from a country and a region that used to try to run the world with its own truly bullying, arrogant and racist ways, which is a signficant reason why the Middle East is what it is today. Most of the UK is brain-washed by their ultra-liberal press which actually runs that country of monarch-worshipping has-beens. But that's all right Dean, your country can still call us when you can't solve your own problems. Love, America.

Tony, Parsippany , NJ

Don't go looking for a fight, that's all Ron Paul is saying. It looks like that's all we have been doing in the last couple of years. Let's stop spending the money on wars, and a little more on the people of America.

David, Rio Rancho,

Dear former occupiers from across the pond, do I actually hear citizens of the UK criticizing the U.S. for being bullies? England has no history of bullying? WOW! Socialized history education appears to be about as effective as socialized medicine. Cheerio!

Jeff, Atwater, CA

Carole-

Ever hear of the USS COLE?

carl, wilmington, nc USA

At this point I really don't care who the nominee is, but how in the world can Romney be "severely damaged" when he actually has the most delegates locked up?

A little more facts and a lot less opinion please...

John, San Marino, CA

I don't see anything about Ron Paul, the one candidate who thinks we should avoid foreign conflict and fix things here at home...

shaun, spokane, wa

Curious. The entire article does not contain a single mention of Ron Paul. This is interesting, particularly when you consider the article's stated focus is on Iran, and Dr. Paul was the only Republican candidate in the debate advocating for restraint and calm towards Iran.

J Diguette, Dallas, TX

what I saw on Fox, after the debate, was that Ron Paul was the winner....I have yet to see his name in any press account of the debate.

I agree that the administration has created a situation where an exceptionally high degree of verifiability will be required before the public will believe anything they say. The Iranians are provoking us with little gunboats? Are we to believe they are young bucks 'counting coup' and intending no real harm?

It sounds like they were creating a diversion. What else was going on while all eyes were on the gunboats?

bfloxword, gainesville, fl

Those who want to try "peaceful" approaches need to understand that this is, and always was, a spiritual battle. Iran is buying weapons from Russia, the Biblical Gog. The book of Eziekial predicts such an alliance that will happen in the end times before the return of Jesus. Many Iranian people may be as peaceful as many American people. No matter, that is not where the power lies.

Marty Pope, Wichita, Kansas

It never ceases to amaze me. People who say they believe in Jesus..but seem afraid to try an approach other than violence..if Jesus did everything out of fear, where would Christianity be? I'm not saying we need to roll over and let our civilization be destroyed--But what about trying new approaches? Iranian rule seems on the brink of change..and by its people. We need to be more creative to deal with complexity. Id appreciate if our politicians wouldn't pander so much in an election year. What is wrong with what Obama is saying..at least have a strenuous try at dialogue..maybe we need little snow clouds to follow the Republicans around..it may take a sign from God to get them to think about the message and life of Jesus..which was one of love...try that first guys!!! Tony Blair, please say something...

Karen, Juneau, Alaska, USA

It reminds me of the tiger at the San Francisco zoo. You antagonize a tiger, it will pounce on you and kill you. Then you blame the tiger.

J. Gardner , Peoria, Arizona

Some people don't see that fact all wars around the world based on differences on believes: muslims/christians, muslims/jews, muslims/buddists, muslims/hindus and so on. Can't you see pattern? Or you don't want too? Muslims were fighting israelites, jew and later christians for last 14 centauries, why do you think it will change just because we are nice people? This is religios war and always was, you can deny it or except it, but we need Soverein God to win it.

Tamara, Tacoma, WA

Ever hear of the Gulf of Tonkin? Or the "Credibility Gap"? Who says history doesn't repeat itself.

John Raskauskas, Talence, France

I agree that the Commanders of the US ships showed a lot of restraint in not firing on the Iranian boats. After what happened to the USS Cole they would have every right to fire on them. I can not believe some of the comments on this post that just because our military is so powerful we should not defend ourselves. Give me a break...... displays of weakness never leads to peace.

Huckabee and Ron Paul were the losers of this debate. Luckily Ron Paul does not have a shot, but sadly Huckabee does. Other than the Iranian topic whenever he was asked a hard question he had the "deer in the headlights" look and then just rambled through his answer hoping to get it right. Most of the questions he did not seem to have any answers to..... Other than he is a nice guy and use to be a minister.

Jason, Idaho, USA

"Ron Paul made a fool out of himself last night. Sad."

I think it's more like Fox News made a fool out of Ron Paul. Very unprofessional of them IMO.
I think they invited him so they could make a fool of him and get him out of the race once and for all. I mean, Campaign Carl was unable to hold back h is own laughter when asking the man questions. Dispicable, and I'm a Fox News fan.

erik, Richmond, VA

Why has the USA refused to make peace with Iran after 30 years ? They deal with all the other rouge states but won´t even talk to Iran. This just gives the hardliners support. America won´t talk to the government of Iran but George Bush´s motorcade is fueled by oil from Iran and and Saudia Arabia,,,the greatest exporter of international terror and oil naturally.

Greg, Munich, Germany

i think that the media is playing this up...yes we have contempt for Iran but so does half of Europe and the Middle East...Did the Iranians get too close? Yes. Is it possible that even without the audio that there was still confrontation? More than possible, I would say fact. After the USS Cole, they be fools not to defend themselves. They did not heed the warnings of the Navy. They deserve the consequences. Also no one has said that this was an official act of the Iranian regime. Even if it was, everyone knows that we are too strapped to do anything about it.

James Russell, New Madrid, MO

With respect to the Iran/US "incident": Which nation is in the other nation's backyard? Which nation has been surrounded by the other? Answer these questions and you will begin to see who is on the right side of this "incident".

Question: why do we in the U. S. expect others to accept that which we, ourselves, would not? Arrogance? Ignorance? Megalomania?

Will killing those who have done nothing to us make us safer?

Kirk Hayes, Alexandria, LA

Ditto, I fully believe we must defend ourselves and help to defend the world when necessary...however, I am not for blowing things up first, asking questions later. Iran was toying with us, but to attack would've been to start another war, which would've been insane. I applaud our sensible men and women in that region of the world who showed mighty restraint in a worrisome situation.
I was for our strikes in Afghanistan after 9/11 because we knew the Taliban helped...it was just and warranted and the world was behind us, too. It was Iraq and the malicious lies that swayed Americans into believing it was right to bomb there that got me angry. Our gov't lied to us about the weapons to achieve its own agenda -- it was not what was best for the American people. As a people, Americans really do stand for the right things...justice, freedom, equality...everything and I look forward to the day when a new president restores our character and integrity for the world to see we are its friends!

Jon, Sandown, NH, USA

Huckabee is a closet Democrat -- a tax and spend liberal from the get-go, but he has become the darling of the Fifth Column media so he keeps getting passes that he shouldn't get.

BlueMax372, SAINT AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA/USA

Huckabee? Right. Abso-[bleeping]-lutely. Gomer Pyle for President. Hasn't one drawling hayseed from Arkansas been sufficient? (I don't mean Hillary; she isn't actually from Arkansas, but she can sound like it on cue.)

Doc Mueller, Wellington, USA/Nevada

amazing.....From the incompetence of GWBush right down to the Republican Presidential candidates its amazing and insulting and how "careless" they all portray a newsmaking headline of the day.

FACT: The speedboats were in international waters.
FACT: Official account is that we don't know that the provacative "communication" even came from the speedboats in question.
FACT: Official accounts tell us that the speedboats were did not bare flags as erroneously reported by our own officials.

POINT: Get the fact straight before the SPECULATION BEGINS. GWBush doesn't need any help when it comes to incompetence. He doesn't need any help from the Presidential candidate peanut gallery.

Tomcat, Greenville, NC 28563

Ron Paul made a fool out of himself last night. Sad.

kate, fayetteville, ga

I've seen plausible reporting that the audio recording of the "Iranian threats" were spliced in with video recording. How do we know that these two have ANYTHING to do with each other?

This would not be the first time in American history that a war was started on false reports of an incident. And Bush's record on this sort of thing isn't very good, either.

Neal J. King, Munich, GERMANY

Mike Huckabee showed true grit last night. I've always liked his plan for the future and this moment of him telling Iran If you attack us "Be prepared to see the gates of Hell!" helped him on foreign policy. Mike got attacked from all sides last night, even the Fox News panel. He handled each situation calmly and skillfully. To me he looked the most Presidential of all the candidates. I'm going to vote for Mike Huckabee.

Jim Flynt, Kernersville, NC

Helen Santek in Canada....Seriously when did anyone ask the opinion of another country about our US presidential race?!?! Stick to the Molson and keep your opinion out of our politics. Love of muscle and no brains?!?!? Huckabee was stating a fact...If they had fired on us we would have destroyed them. 3 large ships vs. speed boats. Our military showed great reserve and poise in not firing. They used those brains that according to you we don't use. Just because you are living in a country hell bent on being just like the US doesn't give you any say in our country.

Joe, Washington, DC,

Predictable response from north of the border. Recommend you read America Alone by a former Canadian who came to his senses to more fully understand the feminization of a formerly staunch ally of the USA against the evil players in our world.

Mike, Baton Rouge, LA

ugh,warmongers

Jeremy, bham,

Biased article! There are 6 candidates still in the race; not 5! No mention of Ron Paul in this article even though he clearly won the debate (though FOX news tried to make him look mental & discredit him!) I was actually AT the debate in Myrtle Beach last night... Ron Paul is the only voice of reason. He wants to bring us back to the a policy of returning to the Constitution & reigning in the military intervention that America has become know for. Instead of more of the same crap from the military industrial complex we've come to rely on... the exact thing that President Dwight Eisenhower warned against in his farewell speech. Wake up America! The rest of the candidates are establishment candidates who will bring more of the same: WAR & SPENDING. Shameful how the media distorts things. Glad I was there & saw how Dr. Paul answered the questions & heard the applause of his many supporters. Wake up America! Do your own research then think & act accordingly!

Lisa McCarthy, Conway, USA/SC

I was very pleased with the answers from both Thompson and Huckabee on the Iran speedboat issue. I also loved it when Brit Hume asked Ron Paul what the hell he was talking about, since the other 5 men on stage all expressed that they were pleased with the restraint shown by the U.S. Naval commanders.

How do people perceive the desire to defend our ships and their personnel as a negative? This much I know: our boys will never be taken hostage by Iran and paraded around on television.

Chris, Lawrenceville, GA

I am sorry that our allies resent us so much, but such has been the way since the free world no longer needed protecton from the Soviets. I rather like Canadian and British folks. I am able to seperate the mainstream populace from the comments of a few people seeking election. I assumed that when President Bush said "Mission Accomplished," people across the world understood it was President Bush saying that and not 300 million American's shouting it in unison, fists held high in the air. I am disappointed others do not understand this. It seemed quite evident.

Rob, Marion, USA

The Iran incident was just that- an incident. Intended to harass and intimidate. No one can make me believe it would be sane to take seriously a few little boats harassing a destroyer.

This is a red herring and another attempt to blow out of all proportion something that is nothing.

Bush is looking for any provocation to attack Iran. He was frustrated by the NIE report that made him look ridiculous and now neocons will try to turn any incident into a provocation for more war.

Get a grip people. One more war and the draft will be reinacted. Our empire is going to fall and this incident is a mere distraction from the real issues--Economy stupid!! Falling dollar! Government created inflation and coming depression!

Carole, Huntington, West Virginia

To Peter from Minneapolis, MN: Mitt Romney's record goes like this.....Buy companies with lots of cheap debt and little equity (it used to be called a leverage buyout but today it's been spiffed up as "rivate equity")...fire the workforce to cut costs...take the company public again, makes big $ and watch the company sink under the debt. Yes, Mitt Romney is a great guy.

ellis , dallas, tx

I agree with Dean. I can't believe Thompson and especially Huckabee said those things. It was very bad taste and it almost sounds like they want a war with Iran right now. I'm glad the US warships didn't fire and destroy the Iranian boats needlessly and make a bigger mess of things. They kept their heads unlike those two candidates.

Michael K, St. Louis, MO, USA

Iran is trying to provoke America. If we let them continue to do so, we appear weak in their eyes. I agree with Huckabee that we should let the commanders decide in that particular situation how to react (the rest just tagged along with that) but that we should not be afraid to react when under threat if necessary.

Huckabee, I believe, is the right man for the times. He has a broad appeal-- I've spoken to "blue-dog" Democrats (those who voted for Reagan) who would take him over any of their own top three. He is comfortable being himself. He puts forward BOLD ideas and solutions, like the FairTax and energy independence in 10 years.

He strikes me as the one most likely to stay consistent between now and the general election. All the other Republicans are running to the right to gain the nomination, which is perhaps why so many conservatives are afraid of Huckabee. But would they rather have someone who will run right back to the center in the general election?

Andrew Davis, Grand Rapids, MI

Why is Ron Paul not mentioned in this article? Not all conservatives are going around looking for wars.

Andrew, Hershey, PA/USA

I believe the US Navy did the right thing by not "taking the bait", as I feel that was Iran's only purpose -- to score a propaganda coup on the world stage by getting us to fire on these small boats, making us appear to be bullies.
Let me hasten to add that this is the ONLY reason that restraint, in this instance, was the right course of action (or inaction, as it were).
In almost any other context, such an unprovoked attack should indeed be met with a response that is swift, certain, and terrible, and I'm entirely with Huckabee on this one philosophically.

Michael, Tallahassee, Florida USA

I find it to be completely amazing how Americans allow BOTH political parties to continue to sucker them into war, social/corporate welfare, confiscatory tax systems, inflation and all the ponzi schemes of this government I didn't mention. Are we that dumbed-down as a society that we cannot even think for ourselves anymore? Remember on election day that the lesser of two evils philosophy of voting still results in plenty of evil.

Andy, Allentown, PA

Dean,

They approached us menacingly in intl waters...they may have said the ship was going to blow up..they dropped objects in the water around the ships...we have had a destroyer blown up by small boats approaching like this before in Yemen, where 17 good sailors died. I think we showed incredible restraint not to fire on them. Huckabee referred to them actually starting a battle with us, then be prepared...etc.... Finish reading the statement, or watch the inevitable video of the statement, and and don't pull what you want to hear out of context to make the point you would have found some way of making anyway. Its fair to make a the point about our country if you feel that way, being how we defend the rights of the world to do so, but feel free to stop breaking off pieces of the Crystalline Castle of Ignorance and heaving them at others. Your statement is just hating, and is not credibly linked to any comment that you wish to extrapolate from what was said.

chris, phoenix, az

A key quote from the New York Times worth considering:

"Naval and Pentagon officials have said that the video and audio were recorded separately, then combined. On Wednesday, Pentagon officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak officially, said they were still trying to determine if the transmission came from the speedboats or elsewhere."

So the Pentagon going to combine audio and video and release it without being certain first? And they're going to admit that both sides are showing small clips of a longer encounter and then dismiss the other side as showing "propaganda"? And, as Juan Cole notes, they're going to push for hostility against the world's largest Shi'a country without concern for the consequences for US troops occupying a predominately Shi'a country?

This warmongering is supremely embarrassing to me as an American.

Benjamin, Durham, NC, USA

Ah, yes, the UKs view of America. I think being on that side of the Atlantic causes some vision problems when all they read is the liberal presses version of what is going on.

Fix your own messes next time, if you can

Jim, Austin, USA, TX

I always wonder at Europeans claiming Americans are bullies throwing their weight around, regadless of the circumstances. Are you aware that the Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway?

Iran's defense minister claims his navy has the right to demand that passing ships identify themselves while transiting an international waterway. Does the UK demand the same of ships transiting the English Channel, another international waterway? Does France?

Even if that "procedure" were legal under international law, does it make any sense to demand the identity of a warship flying the American flag? To any rational person, the act of swarming a warship in international waters is a deliberate provocation and that blowing away the gunboats involved is an appropriate response.

Lawrence Faria, San Diego, California/USA

It is time to recall that the USS Cole was attacked by a speedboat precisely like the five that made a practice run in The Gulf of Hormuz. How very soon we forget:

On October 12, 2000, USS Cole, under the command of Commander Kirk Lippold, set in to Aden harbor for a routine fuel stop. Cole completed mooring at 0930. Refueling started at 10:30. Around 11:18 local time (08:18 UTC), a small craft approached the port side of the destroyer, and an explosion occurred, putting a 35-by-36-foot gash in the ship's port side. The blast hit the ship's galley, where crew were lining up for lunch.[1] The crew fought flooding in the engineering spaces and had the damage under control by the evening. Divers inspected the hull and determined the keel was not damaged.

Bill, Pensacola , FL

That just narrowed the field for me... Huckabee and Thompson clearly are not prepared for the office - as much as they have some interesting ideas. You just can't go around saying stuff like that if you're supposed to be president of all Americans; including muslims. I was hoping Bush was alone in his rhetoric...

Its sad, because I'm probably the demographic Huckabee is trying to reach with those kinds of statements: white, evangelical christian, somewhat conservative, I even play the bass at my church! However, I strongly believe that the church should stay out of the state and vice versa. I'm not about imposing 'biblical' moral law on the nation, or turning every conflict into a holy war. I'm extremely suspicious of any politician who needs to keep reminding everyone how christian they are, tossing a wink at evangelicals at the exclusion of everyone else.

It looks like its McCain, Obama, or Guliani for me. Not perfect choices, but they may do less harm than the others.

Jay H, Denver, Colorado, USA

Not a mere mention in this story about Dr. Ron Paul in the debate, the winner by poll taken afterwards, ten times elected to Congress who actually voted against the War, wants American troops brought home from everywhere in the world to be defensive and not offensive. Wants to stick strictly to the US Constitution and is called Dr. NO because he has never voted yes on raising taxes, on supporting Israel and the Arabs States and wants to stop spending money in other countries when it should be spent on our own border security. Dr. Paul will never win because of election fraud that has already begun in the N.H. primary, but his message of less government and more civil liberties will at least be heard. He has raised more money than ALL of the other candidates but is dismissed by the corporate run media. Ron Paul has the answers, but the dog and pony show candidates will win. The U.S. is finished, end of story! ! ! !

John Salerno, Newport Beach, Calif, U.S.S.A.

Hey Dean in UK, I agree that those responses could be a little toned down, but keep in mind that the people driving those speed boats and the government they represent are the same type of people who morally supported the bombing of your subways and also kidnapped British military personnel in neutral waters. I don't think America throws its weight around; I think it's very specific when focusing on its enemies. Iran is an enemy.

Brandon, Austin, TX

I suppose Dean Mapaba wants the entire world to role over and play dead for every tin pot dictator who wants to coquer the world. If he would pay attention to the rethoric that is coming our of Iran he would realize his approace simply leads to slavery for everyone.

Richard T. Ketchum, Moberly, Missouri, USA

Dean,

Calm down now. Would you prefer the USA to lift their bridge and allow other countries to manage the world affairs? Are the Americans creating more worldly problems or preventing potential epidemics? Before you answer, read your British and French history. Could it be the US is where it's at because some European countries created these messes or didn't prevent them?

D. , San Fran, USA

Huckabee and Thompson's response to the Iranian navy incident exemplifies the type of ignorance that the right wing conservatives embrace. Such responses show that they would not change America's current foreign policy practice. A practice that is in dire need of repair.

America is a world leader and must act like one. A leader should not abuse its own power and act unilaterally for its own self interests. Unfortunately, this has been our practice for the past 7 years. A leader must respect sovereign nations and act in accordance with international law and policy. I understand that nation has the right to protect itself. It should not, however, engage in preemptive strikes unless there is an imminent threat. It is clear Iraq was not a threat, despite Bush's continued assertions.

I can only hope that Huckabee's Iowa win was an anomaly and that Thompson's campaign will continue to flounder. We need a new president that will deviate from Bush's foreign policy disaster.

Eugene, Milwaukee, USA

Was Ron Paul at this debate? I see no mention of him in your article. I'm assuming it was only an oversight on your part. For those of you who read this article and think all Republicans are as arrogant and self serving as those mentioned in the article, Ron Paul is different. He wishes to have a non-interventionist foreign policy - leave other countries alone. His presidency would go a long way to giving some much needed respect to America.

Jason, Pleasant Hill, USA/CA

You know, I watched this debate, and I could have sworn that Ron Paul was there. I believe he also had an opinion regarding the Iranian showdown. Why does the media, including those in the UK, consistently refuse to include Ron Paul in articles regarding the election? He placed fourth in NH, just outside of the top three. Could it be that they are scared of a sudden downfall to the establishment? Do they want the current US regime to continue to dictate every corner of the world like a daddy? I have lived in the US for all of my 28 years, and I have realized in the past year that I'm sick of it. I'm sick of republicans, democrats, and special interests. Finally, someone who actually cares has come along, and he is ignored by everyone. Does it matter that he raised more money than any other candidate last quarter, or that he receives the majority support from the US military out of all of the candidates? No. It makes me sick to think of this ignorance.

Kevin Klebs, Draper, UT/USA

I saw this debate and just now read the article about it.

Clearly, Governor Huckabee is the right man at the right time for the Oval Office. I'm saying this not because i agree with all his policies, but because the Governor is the only Republican out there who is comfortable in his own skin. Above all else, I think we need a President who is not afraid of being himself- either in a campaign or in office. Governor Huckabee is the man we need.

Actually my first choice is Ron Paul, but he doesn't stand a chance to win the nomination. I don't think he would fare well as the Rep. nominee against the Democrats. So- Huckabee is my choice.

Robert A. Wilson, Hartford City, Indiana/USA

Yeah, how dare us threaten to defend ourselves. What the heck are we Americans thinking?? I think the US Navy should be given credit for their restaint in this matter as they were under no obligation to refrain from defending themselves. It's not arrogance, it's common sense. I have been in the US Navy and the though the Stratis of Hormuz 4 times and the danger posed transiting it is no secret. Those boats are lucky they weren't blown out of the water.

Prentice, Chicago, IL

Maybe next time the US Navy should allow four or five skiffs with motors to capture the crew of one of our warships, hold them up to worldwide ridicule, and when they serve no further purpose, send them home in cheap, clownish suits instead of their uniforms. Or is it possible a little strong rhetoric in advance will warn Iran against that course?

Vincent Egry, Pittsburgh, PA

The big story you left out. Ron Paul disassociated himself from the 9/11 truthers. Watch his donations dry up, fast.
Too bad...

Joe Mack

Joe Mack, los alamitos, ca

Right on the money, despite what some say. Iran needs to be very careful with their actions. We have every right to defend ourselves, and the answers need not be "Poitically Correct" I respect the UK a great deal, so I will not hold the response of one, as the voice of all. Deserve Victory!

Ken N. , Rochester, MN

At least our boys won't lay down and be captured and perp walked, and internationally emabaressed by Iran like the Queens country.

Sam, Jacksonville, Florida

Dean.... While you watch militant Islam destroy your country...you point fingers at those who would put up a fight against it. WAKE UP!

Daniel, Trenton, USA

Here is Ron Paul's answer:

I would certainly urge a lot more caution than I'm hearing here tonight. It reminds me of what happened in the Gulf of Tonkin. We went to war there, then, later on, found out there was a lot of false information.
So here we have -- let's put it in perspective. We have five small speedboats attacking the U.S. Navy with a Destroyer? They could take care of those speedboats in about five seconds. And here we're ready to start World War III over this?
And now, guess what, today, the Navy commander of the Fifth Fleet was on ABC and announced that, you know, that voice might not have come from those vessels. So what does that mean? Was there a rush to judgment on this, ready to go to war?
And you know there are people in this administration and in Washington, D.C., that are looking for the chance. They were so disappointed with the national estimate on intelligence. And they were disappointed that there's no attempt to build weapons in Iran since 2003.

j, monroe, ny

Completely clueless on foreign policy, just like Bush was - so I guess this could be a repeat of very disastorous, very expensive campaign. Guess what? Some areas of the world have been tribal for eons, still stuck somewhere in the 15th century and there's no way someone can come in, flick a switch and there's an instant democracy.

Huckabee is just another in a long line of dilusional "God told me to do it", power hungry demigod wannabe. Anyone who has a Bible, Qur'an, Torah, etc in one hand and can press a button with the other scares the absolute daylight out of me.

Hopefully the American public has more sense this time and not vote again for someone who is oblivious to the rest of the world.

Bull Harbour, Redmond, WA

You have just described a leberal Democrat!

Sivle, Cincinnati, USA

"We now hear the words of Iran wanting to wipe the Jewish State off the map"
-- possibly the most repeatedly, and purposely mis-quoted statement in history?

Joe, Ontario, Canada

I have read much recently about Mr. Romney and find him a highly qualified leader who has worked miracles with losing causes - someone the country could use now.

I am always perplexed, however, that news articles, such as this one, seem only to focus on the completely irrelevant issue of his religion, using the perjorative "Mormon" and not even the religion's real name. What about his record, his platform?

Have the news reporters simply not researched what Mr. Romney has done or stands for, or is their religious bigotry so prevalent that they cannot overcome it when reporting?

Please, editors, bring your staff into this century!

Peter, Minneapolis, MN

Some people here in the US and over the pond denied what Hitler was up to in the late 1930's. Then he unleased Hell, and we were united against a very evil person. We now hear the words of Iran wanting to wipe the Jewish State off the map, and all some people talk about is how not to insult them and be precieved as the nice guys in the world. All I can ask of you now is this: Please
Don't call us when your Navy is in it's next struggle! Don't ask that we send our youg people over the pond again once this gets out of hand. Many of us here are tired of fighting for the freedom you exist under and the expence it cost us. Someday, in the not too distant future, you might have to go into a fight alone.

Ernst Von Liedecker, Morrisville, VT, USA

Hey dean, would be nice if you listened to the whole comments by rudy and huck. You're not a ron paul supporter are you?

bill, jacksonville, florida

Another rocking chair cowboy offering. This time from "we'll show 'em whose boss of the universe" Huckabee. Considering Americans' fixation on the love of lots of muscle but no brains, this one could shoot him straight into the White House.

Helen Santek, Welland, Canada

I think that some of those responses, and their subsequent crowd approvals, regarding the recent surge of Iranian navy against the US vessel sums up exactly why there is so much resentment of America's foreing policy and the Americans in general. To throw your weight around with comments like that is arrogant and only shows how small-minded, conservative and world unwary the republicans are. The only one who gave an appropriate response was Mr Guiliani, Thompson's and Huckabees's resonses were sickening.
What a bloated, foot-washing, ignorant, self-centered and hypocrit country America sometimes is.

Dean Mapaba, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom