We don't negotiate with terrorists.

They should have handed over bin Laden when the demand was made, then discussions could have occurred. Like as not, though, depending upon the level of cooperation received (zero so far), the dialog with the Taliban would have been similar to a writer's movie consultant rights vs. a movie director's artistic license.

Writer:
"Look, I wrote the damn book. I know what I'm talking about, and you're doing it all wrong. ...And my contract with you says I have consultant privileges."

Movie Director:
"Uh-huh, that's right." A reassuring pat on the arm. "And we've just consulted. Thank you."

And I really don't have a problem with the above -- though the criminal government of the Taliban might.

Dan