[Ynet News] Ron Ben-Yishai - As long as the IDF does not possess a system for intercepting short-range rockets, the elimination of leaders of the Kassam rocket launching apparatus is the almost sole means available to Israel to end or at least minimize Palestinian rocket attacks from Gaza. Israeli security officials know that eliminating several Islamic Jihad leaders would not eliminate the organization's technical capability to produce and launch rockets. However, an all-out targeted elimination offensive may undermine the organization's motivation, and Islamic Jihad (with the approval of its masters in Teheran) may agree to declare a unilateral ceasefire. Hamas leaders are considering a ceasefire declaration that would enable them to continue to gain strength, reinforce their rule in Gaza, and reach an agreement with Mahmoud Abbas that would grant them international legitimacy and a chunk of the funds promised to the PA in Paris. From an Israeli standpoint, such a ceasefire would enable Hamas and Islamic Jihad to build up and boost their military power.
2007-12-19 01:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive