* I heard that Hamas was relatively unpopular amongst the Palistinians until the current war began. With the bombardment, Hamas has now grown in popularity. Many fear that the result of the incursion will be similar to the result from the earlier incursion into Lebanon – greater power/popularity for Israel’s enemies.

* I also heard that there was a cease-fire negotiated between Israel and Hamas, with the understanding that sanctions would be lifted in exchange for peace. But sanctions have obviously not been lifted.

* Israel has seen as its right to establish settlements in Palestine, so the comment in pamphlets which say “view every Jewish settler as a target to be killed, whose blood and money are for the taking,” are brutal and ugly sure. I could understand such a sentiment, though of course I do not condone it.

Israel is losing the PR battle on this one internationally. Perhaps they don’t care. Seems like a small nation which depends heavily on the world’s positive feelings would care more. I have always felt that economic development is a better approach for Palestine rather than attempted domination.

Sorry my friend, a perspective from outside.