War within the war: shaping perceptions

How conflict is viewed will influence larger outcome.
Howard LaFranchi and Nicole Gaouette, The Christian Science Monitor, March 20, 2003 (edition)

WASHINGTON – However fierce the fighting on the ground turns out to be, another war is under way that may end up being just as important to the ultimate outcome of a conflict in Iraq: the war of perceptions.
Whether the war is seen as one of liberation and international security, or of imperialist occupation and part of a crusade against Islam, will go a long way in shaping global security, international relations, and perceptions of the US for years to come.[...]
- posted by ARYABHATT @ 6:44 pm