To the Point

The Media and the Military

Freedom of information, so crucial to a democracy, creates special problems in wartime, especially when the media are major weapons of combat. The Bush Administration is already citing security for its refusal to let reporters get close to the action. Muslim commentators and others have responded with accusations of censorship. We talk to reporters about their struggles with the Pentagon, with polls showing that many Americans are on the Pentagon's side, look at how the Arabic speaking media are reporting the war, and whether America's message is getting through. Newsmaker: War During Ramadan May Endanger Arab Coalition - The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff says the war in Afghanistan could go on until Spring but Secretary of State Colin Powell would like it to end before Winter. The Chicago Tribune's Michael Kilian explains why Ramadan, the Muslim holy month which begins in November, is an important factor in military planning. Reporter's Notebook: : Soldier's Eye View of Combat and Aid Delivery in Afghanistan - Not many West Point graduates become international relief workers. But Richard Kidd did, traveling to Afghanistan with the UN's mine clearance program. He spoke with Afghan soldiers fighting the Soviet Union, and drew a surprising conclusion. Kidd is convinced that military success will depend on new levels of human compassion.