What effect, if any, do you think this last-minute appeal by
Hamas to Israeli voters will have? Although
Haniyeh said thatthe intention of the leading Kadima Party of Acting Prime Minister Ehud Olmert to withdraw from parts of the West Bank without agreement from the Palestinians is unacceptable
and added that
The problem is with Olmert, with Kadima. He said he will not have any contacts with the Palestinian government. He announced a position. The problem is not with us,
I have a sense that this might actually help Kadima. It's definitely more helpful to the party than Abu Mazen telling Israelis to vote for Olmert. My reasoning is that any appearance of moderation on the part of Hamas is likely to boost either Kadima or Labor votes at the expense of the Likud. That is, if anyone is actually listening.
1 comment:
I think the Israeli public isn't listening a whole lot and doesn't listen. The perception that no partner exists is deeply entrenched in Israel. I don't blame people for holding on to that perception, but it could be dangerous if it ends up blinding Israel to opportunities and potential openings on the Palestinian side.
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