CEDAR RAPIDS &#8212 Republican Fred Thompson said Saturday people around the world are looking for any signs the U.S. is relenting in combating Islamic radicals.

“It is extremely important that we not show weakness,” said Thompson, wrapping up his initial campaign swing in Iowa after entering the presidential race last week. “We must send a message to friends and foes alike that we are determined.”

During the three-day visit to Iowa, where precinct caucuses traditionally mark the start of the nominating season, the actor and former Tennessee senator called for a stepped-up effort in the global fight against terrorism.

“We have yet to come to terms fully with the threat that Islamic fundamentalism presents to this country,” Thompson said. “The whole world is watching and waiting now, friends and foes alike, to see how we are going to react to the pressure they are going to put on us.”

Thompson sought to keep the focus on terrorism and Osama bin Laden after he referred on Friday to the hunt for the al-Qaida leader as “symbolism.” The candidate worked hard to put that remark behind him by toughening his support for the war.

“We are in a conflict with people who are trying to get their hands on the most destructive weapons known to man,” Thompson said. “They are without rules and without conscience.”

Thompson ended his Iowa appearances with a rally attended by about 200 backers in Davenport before heading to New Hampshire for his first appearances as an official candidate there.

With the Mississippi River as a backdrop, he expressed optimism that the country was up to the challenges in a dangerous world.

Thompson sought to play up his anti-Washington pitch by saying, “I’m concerned about the incompetence that we see from one end of our government to the other.”

“We’re at a crossroads in many respects,” Thompson said. “We need to choose the path of more strength, more determination, more prosperity and more opportunity than we ever have before.”

Mary Bowman of Cedar Rapids remained uncommitted, but impressed, after hearing Thompson.

“I think he has the charisma,” she said.