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Israel Rejects Cease-Fire
The Israeli novelist David Grossman weighs in on The Times op-ed page today, writing that Israel should declare a 48-hour cease-fire, even if Hamas continues to fire rockets. “Is it possible,” he asks, “or are we already captives of the all-too-familiar ritual of war?” Grossman won't be happy to learn that, as The Times is reporting, Israel has rejected “a proposal for a 48-hour cease-fire in its military onslaught in Gaza.” The 48-hour cease-fire was first suggested by French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner, in order to open a window for humanitarian aid. However, Prime Minister Ehud Olmert’s spokesman said the Israelis “view it as important to keep up the pressure on Hamas.”
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The whole point, the only justifying purpose, for the Israeli action is to take the minimum effective measure to stop the launching of missiles. When that is achieved, then and only then should the responsive action cease.
To change a phrase from "no peace without justice" to "its not peace with missiles" seems to capture it all.
This is just a huge mess. The worst part is someone-the EU, the US, Egypt-will broker a peace treaty and this will all come to a crushing halt that will last 3-6 months and then we will be back at again. I would think that after a while you would just get tired of fighting.
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I agree with the first commenter, however I might take a 12 hour announced 'breather' action, to see if there is an acquiescence well, then perhaps an additional 12 hours might be granted so long as the sessation holds, and so on until military and civilian leaders reman confident.
Has anybody ever been to Israel? Look around you and the first thing you see are those damn walls. You don't have to be a political scientist to be repulsed by them.This latest attack on the Palestinians is just a continuation of the Israelis' determination to destroy and eventually murder all the Palestinians.
Kudos on the Dershowitz piece. That particular tidbit was so deliciously unpredictable. No ... really ...
Israel should stay focused on her security interests and tune out the the David Grossmans of the world and the French Foreign Minister! Their proposals are to capitulate in the guise of a "cease-fire" . It is incredible to read the near passivist rationale they offer.
When those fortunate 20-somethings of the Israeli Army on the border get the order to move into Gaza and kill Hamas up close, may their mission be ruthless, brutal and without mercy. Hamas deserves no less.
Thank you.
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