Political Quotes

“over the past few days we have witnessed the Annapolis peace process come unraveled. There have been grave escalations between Israel and Hamas. These are a symptom of failed policies, irresponsible actions, and a lack of strategic thinking. Further escalation of the violence in Gaza may deal a fatal blow to the credibility and viability of any peace process. It would further erode support for the peace process. It would further erode support for the peace process among both Israelis and Palestinians. No one can help but feel deep concern for the residents of Israeli communities near Gaza, who have been suffering from a campaign of Qassam rocket attacks. Israel has the right and must take measures to protect its citizens, as well as to seek to free its captured soldier Gilad Shalit. But excessive response that endangers innocent lives and threatens emergency care and services in hospitals is likely to cause graver harm than good. Certainly Hamas understands that its crude rockets, while able to create fear and suffering in Sderot and, now, Ashkelon, can neither destroy Israel, nor break its economic blockade--just as Israel's citizens and military leaders appreciate that while its air force and army can achieve lethal short-term tactical gains in Gaza, this strategy has only enhanced popular support for Hamas, coalesced West Bank sympathy for the Gazan population, and harmed any realistic chances for lasting peace.”