I disagree with Mike Hacke's statement that President Bush's plan for democracy in the Middle East has left the U.S. "more vulnerable to terrorist attacks at home and abroad," ("Bush's 'challenge' leaves U.S. vulnerable to attacks," Jan. 31). Immediately following the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, the U.S. chose to engage the Middle East and begin a policy transformation to alter the balances of power. For the first time in nearly a decade, American foreign policy was clearly defined by the Bush administration. Hacke, I hope you are not serious in suggesting the U.S. return to such a policy, one that liberals have played upon for so long but is now no longer appropriate.

Clearly the piece of the puzzle you and those who oppose the war are missing is that the U.S. seeks not only democracy but also a liberal democracy marked by ideals of freedom and equality. Recognized terrorist groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas don't engage in democratic means or pursue democratic ends. Thus, such organizations should be excluded from participating in democratic processes.