The Israel-Hamas Conflict

Upon entering the third week of "hot" conflict between Israeli and Hamas forces, CNN news reported that "Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert told his Cabinet that his country was close to reaching the goals of its military offensive in Gaza but 'further patience is needed'." Although I am a strong advocate of peace, an immediate end to fighting is not only unrealistic, but could result in a massive launching of Hamas rockets causing immense destruction and devastation in Israel's southern cities & towns. I believe that the world should respect Prime Minister Olmert's request and allow attacks in Gaza to continue until Israeli safety is established and fear of Hamas militant aggressions subside.


As far as US involvement, the government reportedly provides $3 billion of annual aid to Israel which, in turn, is mostly spent on the Israeli military. With this tid-bit of information, one may accurately conclude that the US and Israel share a close relationship: Israel gaining economic and military strength while the US is able to sustain a bold presence in the Middle East. Due to its "partnership", if fighting continues and Israel needs physical support, the US may be asked to join in and help a friend. If this event was to occur, I fear the US would be in a lose, lose situation: get involved in a war that is not their business or face the possible loss of a necessary ally.



Who is right: Israel of the Hamas militant group?
As I rummaged through the enormous amounts of Israel-Hamas Conflict related links, videos, & newspaper clippings, I came across an interesting opinion-based article written by Arsalan Iftikhar. He states that "both...have completely and utterly lost their minds", taking the welfare of innocent civilians into account and preaching that "two wrongs do not make a right". I strongly encourage those who have time, to take a minute and read Commentary: Both sides wrong in Gaza.