What would happen if the IRA were made part of the war on terror?

[mrgorth]

Nightmare scenario: the IRA decides to renew the armed struggle. Would the * admin just authorize Blair to use any means necessary or would it be even worse? What can you see happening?

[greatauntoftriplets]

1. Interesting...and a damn scary thought.....

Off the top of my head, I'd say that the US Defense Department would have to stop using Shannon Airport to ferry troops to the Middle East.

Edited for typo.

[mohinoaklawnillinois]

2. Not at all, GAT..

The government of the Republic would never do anything to piss off the Defense Dept.

I would think a lot of people I know would be put on some sort of watch list or no-fly list. The first thing they would do is come after organizations that do fund raising for nationalist groups here in the US.

I remember in 1995 I went to see Gerry Adams speak at Lane Tech HS and everyone who went in the door had to fill out a form for the IRS. I remember I asked the old guy at the door when Maggie Thatcher came to town if the same was required. Of course I got no answer and filled out the form in a bogus name.

They would also try to infiltrate groups as they have done in the past.

[greatauntoftriplets]

3. I see your point but wouldn't the IRA be likely to retaliate by ....

attacking Shannon? If the British government went to war against the IRA (again) and the Ahern government backed Blair, I wouldn't think the IRA would buckle under quietly.

[two gun sid]

4. Bush would first attempt to ignore the resumption of armed ..

struggle. But, quietly and behind the scenes he would give the nod to Blair to destroy the IRA. What worries me is what kind of operational strength can the IRA be at now? The new volunteers do not have any experience in operations since the cease fire began. Also, how many weapons still exist since they have decommissioned weapons 3 times.

I do not believe that they will resume the armed struggle anytime soon.