The struggle against terrorism is by no means over. More Americans will be asked to lay down their lives in this cause. And at least temporarily, threats to civilians may increase.
But the death of Osama bin Laden, and Al-Qaida's relative irrelevance to this spring's pan-Arabic uprisings, means a powerful blow has been struck in the global fight against extremism.
Next to be determined is the impact on the war in Afghanistan, as well as America's alliance with Pakistan.
Osama bin Laden signed his own death warrant when he unleashed a terrorist war against the American people. That the choice he made has at last had its way with him is a tribute to the skill, bravery and perseverance of this nation's armed forces and intelligence agencies.
President Obama struck the right note of sober satisfaction in his Sunday night address. Bin Laden's death reaffirms several salutary messages:
• To the families of 9/11 victims and all others around the world who have suffered from Al-Qaida's predations: The United States will never relent in its determination to rid the world of the terrorist threat.
• To those who may contemplate becoming enemies of America: You are choosing an unhealthy lifestyle. You may survive for a time as a cowardly fugitive, as Bin Laden did, but one day you will be found.
• To members of the military and national security forces, and their families: Your sacrifices have not been in vain, nor forgotten. The nation thanks you.