[Washington Institute for Near East Policy] Mohammad Yaghi - If Israel accepts a cease-fire under terms favorable to Hamas, such as permanently lifting the siege on Gaza or opening the Rafah border with Egypt, Hamas will claim victory and secure its primacy in Palestinian politics. However, if Israel clearly defeats Hamas, Abbas will win. He will be able to present himself to the people of Gaza as the savior who will rebuild what Hamas has destroyed with its adventurous and destructive policies. Nevertheless, the continuation of the conflict will make it harder for the PA to maintain its campaign against Hamas in the West Bank since it will want to avoid being portrayed as collaborating with Israel.
2009-01-02 06:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive