(Washington Times) Editorial - Prime Minister Sharon's efforts to ensure an orderly pullout from Gaza and the northern West Bank stands in stark contrast to the failure of leadership on the part of PA Chairman Abbas, particularly when it comes to facing down the rejectionist groups like Hamas. For Israel, the problem remains what it has been in one form or another since Mr. Rabin signed the Oslo I agreement in September 1993 - the absence of a functioning Palestinian leadership that is willing and able to take action against Palestinian terrorist organizations operating in territory it controls. A sustained campaign will be necessary to destroy missile factories and training camps, and put terrorist financiers out of business in Palestinian-controlled areas of Gaza. Until Mr. Abbas's security forces show they are prepared to carry out such a campaign, Israeli security forces will need to stay in parts of Gaza - even after the 9,000 civilians living in settlements leave.
2005-07-22 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive