If President Bush or other military leaders wonder if Americans support the war in Afghanistan, they need look only to Alabama.

According to Mobile Register-University of South Alabama poll released this weekend by the Associated Press, 9 out of 10 Alabamians support military action in Afghanistan over economic or diplomatic sanctions.

In fact, it seems Alabama residents want strong actions, from the use of military tribunals to use of nuclear weapons against terrorist groups who make nuclear threats against the United States. A few of the highlights:

· Nine of 10 poll respondents said they have a fair amount of confidence in our government’s ability to protect us from future terrorist attacks.

· Nine of 10 people polled said they would support sending U.S. troops to the other seven countries suspect of backing terrorist groups, including Iraq.

· Some 47 percent said they would favor a nuclear response to nuclear threats; while some 40 percent did not approve of the use of nuclear weapons.

· More than half of those polled favored the use of military tribunals instead of the U.S. criminal process for non-U.S. citizens charged with terrorist activities.

Alabamians, it seems, clearly see the need for strong action and a definitive resolution in the war against terrorism since the deadly attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. We suspect we’re not alone in that position. And, while we as a nation want quick and decisive victory in this campaign, we must remember that this is a complex and difficult enemy. Terrorism is pervasive in our world and eliminating it ­ or at least crippling its major organizations ­ will take time, energy and global cooperation. Winning this war on terrorism will require leadership, diplomacy and conviction from President Bush and the other world leaders.

It’s good to know that they have the support of Alabama residents as we go forth.  

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