This is only time out

During the recent conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, Jews were enjoined to recite Psalm 83. ‘Your foes are in uproar, and those who hate you have raised their head. They say, “Come let us cut them off from nationhood so Israel’s name will not be remembered anymore.” For they take counsel together unanimously … the tents of Edom and Ishmaelites, of Moab and Hagrites, Geval and Ammon, and Amalek, Philistia and the inhabitants of Tyre.’ No change there, then.

As the guns fell silent in south Lebanon this week, there were claims of victory from both sides. Israel’s military brass claimed to have destroyed the infrastructure of Hezbollah, while Hezbollah, supported by Iran and Syria, trumpeted a historic victory over the Zionist enemy. In fact, the result is still too early to call.

The outcome of this war will be in the eye of the beholder. When the dust has settled, what will count — the factors that will really determine victory and defeat, success and failure — will be perceptions.