This is a critical moment for the state of Israel. Although Israel has existed in a hostile environment for over 50 years, the recent and ongoing attacks from Hezbollah, in Southern Lebanon, have become more sophisticated and pose a much greater threat than ever before.

Hezbollah and Hamas, two terrorist organizations hiding behind political agendas, have refused to renounce their aspirations for the complete destruction of the state of Israel. Hamas and Hezbollah are using violence and terrorism to undermine the prospects for diplomacy and peace.

It is important to note that Israel disengaged from both Gaza and South Lebanon. This pullout was complete from both areas and has been recognized by the U.N. Thus, the excuse for terrorism due to territorial disputes from Gaza and Lebanon ring hollow. Although Israel has made numerous overtures at trying to stabilize the region by disengaging from these regions, Hezbollah and Hamas have remained steadfast against peace efforts.

Hezbollah and Hamas both entered Israeli territory in an act that is recognized by any government as an act of war. Israel, like any other sovereign country, has the utmost responsibility to protect its citizens as well as its borders. The military action that Israel is conducting in South Lebanon is a necessary and critical reaction to the kidnapping of Israeli soldiers, the killing and wounding of Israeli citizens, the violations of its borders and the unprecedented reach of rocket attacks into Israeli cities.

Israel's actions are that of deterrence and protection. No country should be asked to stand idle while its internationally recognized territory is breached and its citizens are endangered. Lebanon should be held responsible for reigning in Hezbollah, as do Iran and Syria for providing Lebanon with financial backing and infrastructure. The world community should denounce these acts of terror, the perpetrators and their supporters.

Asking Israel to negotiate with terrorists is to encourage similar acts by similarly minded groups to occur in other parts of the world. A continuation of terror activity without impunity from these areas by Hezbollah and Hamas will certainly bolster Islamic extremists everywhere. Israel's actions should be viewed in the larger context of our war against terrorism. It not only serves its quest for peace, but it will certainly benefit the interests of the civilized world. Israel is justified in rejecting acceptance or negotiation with either the Hamas regime or Hezbollah terrorists until they change their position regarding Israel's right to exist and renounce violence.

We, as Americans, need to continue to support Israel's right as a sovereign democratic nation to defend itself against these terrorist groups and its supporters, who have time and time again, with words and actions, shown the world their intention to obliterate Israel.

This week we have seen a new front open in the struggle for the preservation of democracy and freedom. Stability will only come to the Middle East when all of its neighbors recognize each other's right to exist in peace and security.

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