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Source: http://www.biu.ac.il/SOC/besa/perspectives13.html
The Hamas Takeover and Israel's Interests
(Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies/Bar-Ilan University) Hillel Frisch - Tough Israeli action against terrorism has been critical in the past in teaching Hamas the rules of the game. The targeting of key figures caused Hamas to reconsider the continuation of its terrorist activities, and provided the organization with a push into the realm of politics. If Israel remains on guard and acts swiftly and resolutely to end the activity of any and all Hamas leaders who return to terrorism, Hamas can be kept in line. Hamas has proven itself capable of recognizing and respecting certain red lines. Now is the time to sit tight, walk softy, carry a very big stick, and work with the international community to force Hamas to dismantle its arms and cease its incitement. Perhaps over time, the Palestinian public will sober up from this experience, and elect a more mature leadership that will be ready for a real end-of-war deal with Israel.