The Israeli Army has asked for another three-week period to complete its mission of destroying Lebanon. The Americans it appears are inclined to give them a week, considering the rising anger of world public opinion with respect to the havoc wreaked by the war not just against Hezbollah but against Lebanon as a whole.

That Israel should rely on its ground invasion inside Lebanon, seeking to reoccupy a number of tactical posts along the borders, like that of the Ras-Maron village, to have something to trade with when international forces are sent in after the ceasefire is wrong. The Ras-Maron experience has had a heavy toll on the Israelis. Hezbollah's fighters have proved to be courageous, well-prepared and completely familiar with the land. As Israel continues its wait for a breakthrough,
Rice is unlikely to achieve anything in its present visit. The Lebanese, on the other hand, will have to endure another week as refugees, waiting for the outcome of an immoral war launched by Israel, with civilians being victims on both sides.

Makram M. Ahmad
Al Ahram
July 25, 2006