(Ha'aretz) Amos Harel - A high-ranking security source said Monday that Hamas believes it is vital to perpetuate the image that Israel is fleeing the Gaza Strip under fire, and primarily due to Hamas attacks. Intelligence officials believe Hamas has no intentions of ceasing to use Kassam rockets and is making supreme efforts to increase their range and accuracy. Intelligence officials note a recent tightening of ties between Hamas and Iran, which is pressing for continued terror attacks. The defense establishment believes Abbas will refrain from direct confrontations with the terror groups, instead conducting lengthy persuasive talks and creating a public mood that has reservations about continued terror attacks. A high-ranking security source said that it will take "a year or two at least" before the PA reassumes control of the security situation.
2004-12-28 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive