I have no pity for terrorists who use civilians as shields, or kidnap then behead american workers or soldiers. But I think a distinction needs to be made between those men, and those who are simply pissed off natives who are fighting an invading force.

I can empathize with men who are simply taking up arms against an invading force. If China invaded the US tomorrow, I'd be fighting them tooth and nail, but I'd be part of no military force and I'd be an "enemy combatant" to the Chinese.

For me I think it boils down to that I can't condone torture in any instance, as I would not want me or my fellow country men to be subjected to torture. I think as the global super power we have a duty to be held to the highest standard or else we set a dangerous precedent for the world to follow in our foot steps as their justification for bending the rules if/when the time comes.