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Israel's Unexpected Victory Over Terrorism

(New Republic) Yossi Klein Halevi and Michael B. Oren - Perhaps the greatest danger in fighting terrorism is the polarizing effect such a campaign can have - not just internationally, but domestically. To avoid this pitfall, a strong political consensus for military action is necessary. That means the president must actively reach out to domestic opposition. But American leaders must also heed Sharon's other lessons. That means an ability to endure criticism from abroad and even to risk international isolation, a willingness to define the war on terrorism as a total war, and a commitment to focus one's political agenda on winning, not on divisive or extraneous concerns. Fulfilling those conditions does not guarantee success. But it does make success possible - as Israel is, at great cost, showing the world.
2004-09-20 00:00:00
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