So for what exactly are we supposed to be angry with the Algerians?

[Igel]

6. It's not our way.

Out way: Negotiate first. Possibly pay ransom. Drag out the situation.

Esp. when "our people" are involved. Whatever the local consequence may be.

There may also be some faith in our boys being better at SWAT and commando tactics. Like having the Israelis at Entebbe instead of asking local troops to do the job.


As it is, the Algerians decided how to go about doing things on their own, on their own schedule, and in their own ways. So some of "our people" got killed. They didn't suck up to us and ask our help. They failed to do things in a culturally appropriate way, apparently. Which is to say, according to our culture. Colonialism lives, just in a way that we think isn't colonial at all.

Instead they did things culturally appropriate for their region, in a way that may have ended up hurting Westerners but which they believe will save more (local) lives.