Chezilla,
If you remember our govt didn't go in to the Balkans until the public outcry over the images became overwhelming. Two years prior we decided not to send troops in until a peace agreement could be reached... We were still licking our wounds from a similar episode in Lebanon where our barracks were bombed and 241 American "Peace keepers" lost their lives. Also around this same time as the Balkan conflict we are already dying in a relief / "Peace Keeper" mission in Somalia (Black Hawk Down).
Understandably, the American public and our government had little taste for another "peace keeping" mission with boots on the ground.
Our govt rarely takes such major action until the people endorse it.... be it the result of direct attack, images of mass graves or now, sadly...even false rumors of immediate threats. You have got to explain to that mother and father in Idaho why their child's life may be lost fighting in East Timor, a place they probably have never even heard of (To my Aussie mates, please forgive the example).
Just as we watched, just as Europe watched, just as the Africa watched, just as SE Asia watched, just as South America watched, just as the Middle East watched etc etc etc... we are not alone in our complacency nor guilt, but we do try.... as do many others
Unfortunately but realistically, sometimes the battles you fight or don't fight depends on many variables...
I wish it was as simple as go in kick arse and and get out...
Just my 2 cents, nothing more
Av