Commando actions are not full-scale wars, campaigns or even offensives. They should not be subject to the same precautionary safeguards. For one thing, unlike D-Day or Operation Desert Storm, they can usually be recalled if unexpected risks emerge, and the small number of troops engaged limits the number of possible casualties. The purpose of Special Operations forces is to carry out operations too complex and demanding for regular line forces. Because they do not serve as deterrence, they are useless unless used.
Action entails the risk of failure and of casualties.
Osama bin Laden has become the hero and role model of countless potential terrorists. Edward N. Luttwak is a senior fellow at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. The heat is on, Mr President.