Submitted by doug freeble, Jun 19, 2007 03:57

Israel and the Quartet should respect democracy by immediately opening up diplomatic channels with the Hamas government. They were elected by a democratic election. Although Hamas began as a radical Islamist organization, they will be forced to moderate their views by participating in democracy.

Unfortunately, the diplomatic isolation of Hamas seems to have only increased their radical tendencies. History shows that if there would be a real attempt at negotiation and dialogue Hamas, they would become politicians rather than militants. This is in the best interests of Palestinians, Israelis, and Americans. although on the surface it may seem counter-intuitive.

Furthermore, the continued western support of Fatah, including recent US support of aggressive operations against Hamas in the Gaza strip, will in fact weaken the standing of Fatah, even among moderate Palestinians. This will be a classic case of "blow back" (i.e. the unintended consequences of intelligence operations, especially of the covert variety).

Given the current policies of Abu Mazen, Mr. Olmert, and the Bush administration, it requires no great foresight to see further sufferings for the Palestinians and continued stagnation in the Middle East Peace Process.

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