With chaos threatening to engulf Lebanon, the need to resolve the conflict in the Middle East has rarely seemed so urgent. The Op-Ed editors went to seven experts with experience in the region, asking each of them what should be the first step toward defusing the crisis.

::::::::

With chaos threatening to engulf Lebanon, the need to resolve the conflict in the Middle East has rarely seemed so urgent. The Op-Ed editors went to seven experts with experience in the region, asking each of them what should be the first step toward defusing the crisis.

Stop Bombs,
Start Talks

With a break in the violence, the international community could help the Lebanese Army assert its authority throughout the country. By PAUL SALEM.

An Appropriate Response
Israel must see the current fighting through to a conclusion that is unambiguously a defeat for Hezbollah and Hamas. By RICHARD PERLE.

Bring In the Quartet
We need to turn to substantial outside intervention based on the Saudi peace plan of March 2002. By AVISHAI MARGALIT.

Don't Just Talk to States
President Bush should undertake a diplomatic initiative that engages non-state parties to the conflict, especially Hezbollah and Hamas. By JUDITH KIPPER.

Resolve to Put Lebanon in Charge
A robust international force can help the Lebanese government assert its exclusive sovereignty over its territory against any possible Syrian, Iranian or Israeli encroachment. By CHIBLI MALLAT.

The Terrorism Trap
Viewing the current crisis through the distorting lens of terrorism, as the Bush administration and the Israeli government do, leads to the unreflective use of force. By RASHID KHALIDI.

Meet Your Enemies

The United States must rekindle the kind of diplomatic activity that befits its status and furthers its interests. By ROBERT MALLEY.

Authors Bio:
NY Times