Israel Matzav

Hamas' losing streak

Gaza terrorists were counting on the “Goldstone effect” to tamper any Israeli intentions for punishing strikes on the Strip, yet when the moment of truth arrived Hamas discovered that it was fooled, again. Judge Goldstone’s retraction several weeks ago, even without being officially adopted by the international community, deeply undermined the report’s anti-Israel and pro-terror findings and conclusions.

What’s worse for Hamas, the current round of fighting in the south coincided with the West’s campaign against Gaddafi. More specifically, NATO forces have been bombing a foreign country, Libya, in order to prevent murderous attacks on civilians – the same logic behind Israel’s strikes against Gaza terrorists. In this respect, the Arab League’s call to impose a no-fly zone over Gaza is particularly ludicrous. If the West wishes to adopt the Libya logic in Gaza as well, it will be bombing Hamas, not Israel.

Hamas was slow to grasp the significance of current realities, but terror leaders are likely getting it by now. Indeed, Israel’s incessant strikes on Gaza targets were met with a rather deafening global silence. Instead of the global embrace it expected, Hamas now must contend with the realization that it is more isolated than ever, somewhat resembling a bride with no suitors (with the exception of that dashing fellow, Ahmadinejad.)

The terrorists are finding it hard to elicit support even among their own Arab brethren. As Arab affairs expert Guy Bechor noted recently, the turmoil sweeping through the Middle East is keeping both regional leaders and the Arab masses preoccupied with their local, more pressing issues. Who has the time for the Palestinians when Syria is burning and Egypt is contending with the aftershocks of Mubarak’s political demise?

Arab League declarations in Hamas’ favor are no more than empty lip service, same as the insincere statements issued by Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas, who still Hamas’ bitter rival.

Labels: Gaza, Hamas

posted by Carl in Jerusalem @ 6:09 AM