They are deeply conscious that they can do little but utter pious public declarations seeking to maximise the pressures on those involved in the escalation of Middle East hostilities and that their words are only half heeded at a time of high emotion.

CNN: EU leaders appeal for Middle East peace

Rebel spokesman Samson Kwaje said there would only be a cessation of hostilities once all outstanding issues were agreed.

BBC: Sudan told to seize chance for peace

He has yet to address the larger point, however, namely that their continuing presence is but one of many reasons why there is no real "peace" in the Balkans, only a temporary absence of hostilities.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Hearing takes a toll on Lake nomination

POWs are required to give only their name, rank and serial number and must be repatriated after hostilities end.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center for Security Policy | Worried About Civilian Casualties in the War on Terror? Don��t Allow Terrorists to Masquerade as Non-Combattants