War is More Than Just a Buzzword; It's a Grave Matter
Anyone who has experienced the horrors of war firsthand will tell you that it is no laughing matter. It is a grave responsibility which is not to be taken lightly. The individuals who are tasked with executing these orders, whether in planes dropping bombs or on ships launching attacks, don't care about the political semantics. When you're ordered to kill others in a foreign land, it's war, plain and simple.
For the families who have lost their loved ones in service, this truth resonates even more deeply. It's a painful reality they have to live with every day.
Incorrect Portrayal of War
What baffles many is the inability of certain individuals in power to recognize these undeniable facts. The war has been referred to as an "excursion" by the President, as if it's a vacation on a luxurious yacht. The Secretary of State has also downplayed the severity of the war, calling it a special military operation. The Secretary of Defense also insists it's not a war, focusing more on public image over condolences for the fallen soldiers.
Each of these instances only serve to trivialize the harsh reality of war and the loss of human lives, not just Americans, but also Israelis, Lebanese, Bahraini, and even Iranians. There seems to be a senseless comparison being made between the violence of war and the structured violence of football games. It's important to remember that war is not a game, and it's not a chance to show off graphic design skills.
Responsibility of Leaders
When the leaders of a free society decide to use their most lethal weapons against another country, risking the lives of their military members and using vast financial resources, they owe the public a clear and truthful explanation. They should explain why they made the decision, what they aim to achieve, and how they will measure success.
However, we've seen little of this. Instead, we've seen vague statements and contradictions that undermine the more thoughtful attempts of others. These attempts are quickly retracted, aligning with the nonsensical narratives that are frequently offered.
It's not for me to say whether or not the decision to attack was right or wrong. There were reasons to question the sincerity of the negotiations with Iran. There are also historical reasons that could justify military intervention to reduce future threats.
Transparency and Honesty are Key
If military action is the chosen course, it must be treated with the seriousness it deserves. The public deserves to know why their children are being sent to fight. They need to know the costs and why these costs are worth the expected benefits. Changing reasons daily, no clear endgame, no measure for victory except for the President's declaration, and asking the public to bear any costs without explanation is neither transparent nor effective leadership in times of crisis.
It's time to stop treating the military as a toy to distract from domestic issues. War is not a time to play fast and loose with the truth or to post memes for social media likes. It's a time of grave responsibility and serious consequences. It's time for real leadership.
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This article is written by a retired military pilot, professor of Political Science, and senior public policy civil servant.
