THE revulsion against the terrorist atrocities in the United States has galvanised public opinion across the world like no other event since the Second World War.

It has created a loose coalition of disparate powers, united in condemnation of the loss of so many innocent lives.

While President Bush's rhetoric in response to the attack has been hard-line, the diplomatic response of his administration has been carefully measured.

Despite behind-the-scenes preparation for military intervention, the US has managed so far to keep the coalition intact. It is vital no one's nerve wavers over the next few days.

The unprecedented level of sympathy for the US has isolated the Taliban regime in Afghanistan from the rest of the world. And, in the face of such an overwhelming diplomatic offensive and military threat, the Taliban is seriously considering handing over the man suspected of masterminding the suicide hijack missions.

To bring Osama bin Laden to justice by such means will be a remarkable achievement. It will send out a stark warning to other nations who harbour terrorists and sponsor terrorism.

The world must cling on for as long as possible to the hope that some good can come out of the mindless acts of evil last Tuesday.

The sobering aftermath of the tragedies in New York and Washington appears to have had an impact in the Middle East, where a ceasefire has been declared between Israel and Palestine. The terrible events in the States have undoubtedly convinced both sides of the futility of violence and confrontation.

The opportunity for constructive dialogue should be seized, and not be sidelined by the focus on Afghanistan.

The campaign against international terrorism and the search for peace in the Middle East can run parallel and the chances of a successful conclusion to both will be improved, keeping together the unity of purpose throughout the world.

While the US must never rule out a military option to seek justice for the deaths of 5,000 civilians, it is imperative that it only opts for the ultimate sanction when other alternatives are exhausted, and are seen to be exhausted by the rest of the world.