War in the Gaza strip

Well here we go again,

Israel is about to initiate another severe military action against the Hamas in the Gaza strip. This cease fire did not last as long as even the pessimists thought it would. It has broken down with some deadly missiles barely missing a kindergarten and another rocket injuring three people. It’s unclear whether Olmert understands that the Army cannot leave territory that it captures in the strip. It needs simply to destroy the Hamas army and kill all its soldiers. Nothing less will do.

The Israeli military has seemed to make a major comeback after a particular bad showing in the second Lebanon war a number of years ago. Its showing in Israel’s offensive that ended with a unilateral cease fire was impressive. It will need to be in top form as there seems to be no real choice but the complete eradication of the Hamas. The Hamas has gained confidence in all the flack that Israel and its military have received from around the world. It believes Olmert and his government will not be capable in really pressing ahead. Olmert may completely surprise them and even himself as politically he has nothing to lose. His term as prime minister is about to end and he doesn’t want to be remembered as a loser.

If Israel does react hard and the military merry go round continues there will be elections during war time. That will be a first for Israel and may have practical results as many soldiers will not be able to vote. The soldiers generally vote more right wing.


We will all have to wait to see what happens.

It won’t be pretty