What I learned is that "self defense" is legal. "Going to war" needs to be sanctioned by the government. I'm all for helping others but somehwere you may cross a line and knowing where it is in your area is essential as you mentioned.
I agree you did a good job in this essay. Sometimes when writing on a hot subject it's much easier for the reader to become focused on the message if the word "I" is used instead of "you". It helps them study and maybe accept your ideas instead of being an attack on their behavior. But then again it won't stir the pot and keep the thread going as long.
