Abe orders task force to do everything possible for Japanese hostages in Algeria

Politics Jan. 19, 2013 - 02:00PM JST ( 5 )

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5 Comments

0

semperfiJan. 19, 2013 - 12:00PM JST

The Algerian Gov't acted precipitously - - - It's a conundrum however ,bc these hostage-takers have no hesitation about killing.
3

Graham DeShazoJan. 19, 2013 - 01:32PM JST

And this "firm response" would be what, actually? To negotiate the ransom amount and whether it is paid in dollars or yen, and at what exchange rate?

The sad fact is that Japan is along for the ride here with no ability to influence or affect the outcome in any way shape or form. This is just a show so that the Abe administration looks like it is determined to act. To be fair, that is really about all that they can credibly do....
0

marcelitoJan. 20, 2013 - 12:14AM JST

Just a show for the cameras to give himself an action ready image of a " PM in charge ". There is absolutely zilch that this task force can do apart from waiting for and passing on info it receives from Algeria and the US. That's it.
0

YuriOtaniJan. 20, 2013 - 08:29AM JST

Hang the 2 pirates after a fair trial. They are guilty and there is no doubt about it. Caught in the act and we should hang them at sea. Being soft makes us targets.
-1

PontepilateJan. 20, 2013 - 09:55PM JST

@GrahamDeShazo I agree 100%. Talking tough when at end of the day all one can do is depend on others to act is backing louder than the master, a good act for a galley of ignorant people. No doubt, Mr Abe's asking for time is to negotiate the ransom money, forgetting that money paid by the French, Germans and others at one time or the other is what has built up the war chess of the terrorists... take a look at the vehicles they are using, they aren't American jeeps, and they were not purchased with rocks. Giving the terrorists more time only allows them time to split up the hostages and secure them at different points with explosives devices (we shouldn't forget these are people who aren't afraid to die). To say lives first is like the 100 out of 132 liberated don't matter.