(Washington Institute for Near East Policy) Ehud Yaari - The August 31 and September 1 and 2 shootings show that Hamas has decided to make a full effort toward resuming attacks in the West Bank. While most of its terrorist operatives in the West Bank were arrested through joint Israeli-PA efforts, Hamas is now encouraging some dormant cells to take action. The group has also continued its efforts to send Gaza operatives through the Rafah tunnels to the Sinai with the goal of infiltrating the West Bank. Yet, according to well-placed sources within Hamas, the group is not planning a reversion to suicide bombings. Most of Hamas' West Bank leaders have privately criticized the military wing and the way it is running Gaza. They advocate quiet reconciliation with Abbas rather than confrontation and question the effectiveness of "armed struggle" at this juncture.
2010-09-16 09:37:53Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive