(Guardian-UK) Ron Prosor - The Quartet has long applied three principles Hamas must adopt to take part in negotiations. It must renounce violence, recognize Israel and abide by previous agreements between Israel and the Palestinians. At no point has Hamas satisfied these conditions - or indicated any intention to do so. The Hamas charter advocates the destruction of the State of Israel, the genocidal slaughter of Jews and the imposition of an Islamic state governed by sharia law. Some in the West fondly refer to Hamas as the elected representatives of the Palestinians. While Hamas won the Palestinian council elections in 2006, it was not a mandate to violently overthrow the Palestinian Authority. Nor does it justify terror against Israel. Only 32% of Israeli voters believe talks with the Palestinians will lead to peace. It is the Israelis who require confidence-building measures. In Gaza, no missiles would mean no blockade. It is that simple. The writer is the Israeli ambassador in London.
2010-08-25 07:57:12Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive