THE attacks on Afghanistan are a classic example of "developed" countries exercising their military muscle in order to achieve and ensure their own dominance over the world.

Again we have seen no consultation by the US/ UK, with the United Nations, about any military retaliation. Rather, they have resorted to carrying out their own acts of terrorism.

Again we see an act of aggression against a sovereign nation, indiscriminate bombing of civilian populations, and the US and the UK trying to topple a regime that is unsuitable for government (in the eyes of the "civilised" west). Where have we seen this before? In Iran, Iraq, Cuba, Indonesia, and Afghanistan (1979).

It's surprising to think that 20 years ago these very Afghans toppled the communist soviet regime, that had invaded their country. Then, the Afghans were backed, financed and supported by the US.

What baffles me the most is why certain countries think that they have the right to play a part in the affairs of another country and why they deem themselves to be the police, judge and jury over all worldly affairs. Why does the UK and US insist on the removal of the ruling regime in Afganistan?

Surely it isn't a case of fulfilling their moral and ethical role of "helping" the Afghan people to be rid of such a "tyrant" regime. For if it is a case of morals, then why didn't the US/UK intervene to halt the massacre of Chileans suffering at the hands of Augusto Pinochet?

Why weren't armed forces sent in to help the people of Bosnia and Yugoslavia when Milosevic was butchering 1000s of innocent people? They were only sent at the last moment.

It would appear lives of Americans are so pure and holy that their deaths warrant special attention and immediate retribution.

SAJID RIASAT,

Stanley Road, Worcester.