WITHOUT A VICTORY, ISRAEL'S VIABILITY AT RISK

Without a Victory over Hizballah, Israel's Long-Term Viability Is at Risk - Ron Ben-Yishai
There is much more at stake in Lebanon than pushing Hizballah north and dismantling and disarming the organization. This is a defining stage in the current battle in the Middle East, between radical, militant Islam and pragmatic forces, including Israel. If Hizballah comes out of this fight with the upper hand, Hamas, the Moslem Brotherhood in Egypt and Jordan, and other jihadis in the region will look to Iran for leadership and will adopt Hizballah's tactics. Normal life in Israel will not be possible, and in the long term Israel's existence will be at risk.

A draw will allow Hizballah to regroup and return to battle after a short period. In practice, such an outcome would be a loss for Israel. On the other hand, if Israel wins, the threat from the north will be emasculated for a long time. Palestinian extremists will be weakened and will seek agreement with Israel. Even Iran and Syria will be forced to re-evaluate the situation. Therefore, Israel has no choice but to win this battle. (Ynet News)

The Consequences of an Israeli Defeat Would Be Ugly - Editorial
We hope that, while Ms. Rice pursues diplomatic options, privately Mr. Bush is telling Mr. Olmert that Israel must finish the job he started against Hizballah - including a ground invasion of southern Lebanon if that's what it takes. Now that the war has been joined, and Israel has pledged not to stop without disarming Hizballah, a defeat for Israel will mean more danger and far more casualties down the road. (Wall Street Journal)