French Journalists Vanish in Iraq

Missing and strongly feared to have been kidnapped are two French reporters on assignment in Iraq. George Malbrunot of Le Figaro newspaper and Christian Chesnot of Radio France Internationale, described as "seasoned Iraq specialists," have been missing without a trace since Thursday.

Since previous kidnappings and threatened executions have been for purposes of extorting concessions from coalition forces and their supporters, it's unclear what the purpose is of taking Frenchmen. With the possible only exception of supplying ground and air forces, France seems to be totally supportive of the militant Islamic murderers. But, then again, murdering thugs usually aren't very bright nor are their supporters.