It was only politicians who could end the crisis, by convincing investors that Europe's public finances were under control.

BBC: Interview with an ECB president

If Mr Zarqawi could now be captured or killed, it might go some way to convincing Iraqis that the uprising is finally being brought under control.

ECONOMIST: Iraq's sovereignty restored, up to a point | The

If Israel had retaken control of southern Lebanon, Olmert would have had a chance of convincing the public that unilateral withdrawal was a viable strategy.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: The Path to the Next Lebanon War