Israel Matzav

A 'Palestinian' SWAT team?

JPost is reporting that Israel is considering allowing France to train an elite 'Palestinian' force that would undertake anti-terror operations against Hamas and Islamic Jihad. You may recall that four 'Palestinian police' were killed in a botched operation against Hamas in Kalkilya in May. The force, which would be modeled on the IDF's elite reconnaissance units, would undertake pinpoint operations against Hamas terrorists in Judea and Samaria.

The four Palestinian battalions trained by the United States in Jordan and already deployed in the West Bank were taught how to enforce law and order and conduct regular police-like operations, but were not given military training. Their equipment consists of pistols and Kalashnikov rifles, and the content of their training is approved by Israel.

The IDF is therefore considering allowing the establishment of a small, elite Palestinian squad that would be capable of conducting operations like the one in Kalkilya more effectively and with fewer casualties.

The army recently vetoed a PA request to receive explosives training. The Palestinians also asked Israel for permission to set up an advanced military communication system. This too was denied by the army, due to concern that the Palestinian system would interfere with IDF communications.

Why is it that the 'Palestinians' seem to be very into 'law enforcement' but could not care less about any of the other elements of running a state? Hmmmm.

Oh and get this at the end.

While the IDF Central Command, under the direction of Maj.-Gen. Gadi Shamni, has succeeded in dramatically reducing the level of terrorist activity in the West Bank, a top officer warned on Thursday that the army fears that Hizbullah will activate terrorist cells and have them attack Israel.

And I'm sure we can just count on the 'Palestinians' to stop them. Puhleeze!

posted by Carl in Jerusalem @ 2:40 AM