Reaction from around the world:

Dubai

"In the past America has sought vengeance for attacks on U.S. government buildings by retaliating against sites in Libya, Afghanistan and Sudan. It was not clear at that time that America was attacking the right places, and it has become more clear with time that the sites attacked were mistakes. Such tit-for-tat violence has resulted in continuing attacks from violent groups, and has not solved anything. It is important at a time like this that America remembers its role as the world's leading power, and its commitment to justice. Bush's intention to 'punish' should not disintegrate into plain revenge, but should incorporate justice as well. In such a search for justice America carries the sympathy and support of the world."

Gulf News, DUBAI / UAE

VENGEANCE - doing something bad to someone to punish them for something they have done to you

RETALIATE - doing something bad to someone because they have done something bad to you

TIT-FOR-TAT - doing something bad to someone because they have done something bad to you

DISINTEGRATE - break down; become worse

REVENGE - doing something bad to someone to punish them for something they have done to you