Submitted by Dave Levy, Dec 23, 2007 09:00

To Rick: I agree with you totally. Israel always seems to react, not act. Most likely, Condi and Bush are strongly advising against stronger action against Hamas, etc. We see this proven with Israel latest futile attempts to build 300 apts in Jerusalem, and a much larger residential neighborhood (10,000 units)., both basically squashed when the US disapproved. Israel is not the master of it's actions, the US is. This Iron Dome thing is expensive, and will not stop thousands of Kassams or Katyushas (boasted by Hamas and Hezbollah). I suppose investing in a few more shelters (in Sderot) may be okay, but what about Ashkelon, a far better target? How will Israel protect chemical factories....can it rush school children into shelters indefintely? Something will give. Israel is losing on this one, and badly. Hamas is picking it's spots.

With Israel, unlike basketball, the best way to win is with a good offense. Israel thinks it's playing in the NBA. It aint'. To deter Hamas (and Hez, Syria and Iran), Israel must go on the attack, and mean it. It is playing games (with itself). Olmert, Livni and Barak, are kowtowing US., which is part of the problem, Until Israel, asserts itself, (as in Iran), it will formulate half-baked measures. Sealing off the Phil Corridor should be a start. Creating some sort of zone (no mans land) alongside the dividing fence, is another. Israel should consider hitting residendial areas, if need be, and stop worrying about collateral damage. If Katys are used by Hamas, Israel should respond accordingly...and stop the pretense.

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