When our government resorts to war against Afghanistan, deaths of innocent people on both sides will take place. There will be repercussions against our country resulting in more terrorist actions, more deaths, violence and destruction.

The only alternative is for the United Nations to demand that Afghanistan release Osama bin Laden to the UN for questioning and discussion to be held in a neutral country. If the Taliban rulers abide and release bin Laden, then economic and financial assistance can be offered providing they abide by the UN's requirements. If they do not abide and do not release bin Laden, then the UN should impose economic sanctions, trade barriers and other penalties until they do.

We should not resort to wars to resolve disputes at this stage of our civilization. The United Nations should be greatly strengthened and issue regulations and requirements that member nations must abide by to bring about a world at peace with no wars, no terrorist groups and wipe out poverty, hunger and disease. That is where the world should be now.

Philip Rowen