GOOD POINT

How we respond now matters. What plays out in Iraq will define how the rest of the Arab and Muslim world respond to America in the years ahead.

If we are seen as weak, we will suffer death from a thousand cuts. If we are seen as strong – having given evidence of possessing the will to use our strength – the world has a chance at peace for another generation.

Baring such decisiveness, the world has likely less than five years until nuclear weapons fall into terrorist hands. We do well to remember their demands are not for negotiations, but capitulation and a Muslim society.