For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Jay Draiman — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 18:33:27 GMT

Israel should have responded sooner - It is Israel’s government fault for this escalation.

For years the Arab population around and surrounding Israel has been bombing with rockets and suicide bombers.

Would the U.S. or any other country shown such restraint while its citizens are terrorized, the answer is absolutely not.

Israel chose restraint. The Arab world sees restrained as a sign of weakness and capitulation.

It is long overdue for Israel to take off the gloves and respond with extreme force and keep the pressure without relenting.

Do not worry about the media or world opinion. You do whatever you have to, to defend your country and its population.

People in the world respect those in power who defend their citizens and not weaklings, even though they may object initially.

If the Arab permit extremist to hide among civilians, they must bear the consequences, it is a right and an obligation to protect its citizens by any means available – no force is too small, extreme force and prejudice is required.

For every bullet a grenade, for every missile a bombardment. When Sharon was defense minister many years ago, that was the policy and it worked, it will work today also.

Any terrorist actions should be dealt with in the strongest fashion possible, otherwise the situation will escalate.

Anyone threatening the security will be expelled out of their homes and the greater Israel

Jay Draiman

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Chad, Lincoln, Nebraska — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 19:36:07 GMT

These people voted a terrorist group as its elected representation. In essence, the people of Palestine voted for war with Israel, given the stance of Hamas on Israel. Therefore, is it ANY surprise that Palestinians are treated as the enemy, and thus contained as any enemy would be? Palestinians are reaping what they have sowed, and I have zero sympathy for them.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

diane clare — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 19:46:40 GMT

why do they keep doing this to these people? There is a special place in hell for those on both sides. I remember seeing on the television out of Bosnia, an older muslim woman, all in black. She was standing at a cross roads where the soldiers in trucks crossed from both sides as the war there raged on. The battle lines were moving back and forth. She stood in that cross roads cursing at all the soldiers who rode by. Shame on them all for decades of atrocities. The whole trouble in the mid east started when Churchill ordered the invasion of the dardenells to begin breaking up the ottoman empire. this is a our legacy.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Rick Dunie, Holladay, Utah — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 19:47:51 GMT

So why do these people continue to support Hamas? Hamas doesn't care about them. Hamas only desires to destroy, not protect or preserve. The problems which exist between Israel and the Palestinians can be resolved but not with suicide bombings and rocket launhers. As long as the agents of death are running the show, people will die.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

B. J. Rice — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 19:54:28 GMT

Present Administration (USA) - Dialogue with our "friends" and especially with our "enemies." SERIOUS diplomacy has a chance to change minds and hearts.

Next Administration (USA) - Same.

Palestine and Israel - No more "eye for an eye." Ireland stopped the bloodshed after years of hostility - now they are free to reap the rewards.

Israel - Without doubt, you have suffered much in the past but you need to be held accountable for YOUR atrocities and not given a "free pass."

Ismael Terawi - Please, stop having children. Teach those you have not to hate. Keep hope alive, many in the world care about your suffering and the suffering of others. Support your wife and value women.

Citizens of the world (and hedonistic USA, in particular) give of your time and money to alleviate suffering in the world. Find a cause you believe in and give it your full support. Please - Vote more carefully for President of the USA this time around.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

John Myer, Austin, Texas — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 20:02:06 GMT

$3 a day per person is above the poverty line, for 1.1 million people, that's $3.3 million dollars a day.

BTW, how many millions is that idiot Bush spending on the war in Iraq? I think it was something like $400 million a day.

We can blame Bush all we want, but please remember, this is one of the best (if not the best) democracy in the world, and WE elected Bush, TWICE.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Nancy — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 20:19:00 GMT

Israel will ALWAYS be the terrorist and ALWAYS be responsible for any atrocities committed. They're punishing a group of people for exercising their democratic rights! How can Hamas help its people when they have no resources and are being slaughtered left and right?! People need to wake up and realize what's really going on here- the killing machine is Israel and always has been!

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 20:38:12 GMT

I would like to know why this man has 12 children. That is far to many in that area. I am wondering what Hamas has done to put people to work doing things other than building missiles to rain down on civilians.

I know that it is hard for this guy to do things given that Hamas fails to stop any violence against Israel. Look where most of the violence against Israelis takes place -- civilian locations: shopping malls and schools. Where has Israel chosen to make attacks? Much of the time it is at places that launch missile into civilian locations from the Gaza Strip. Apparently, there is a failure to learn that you must stop that so that you can at least get food for the women and children.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Dan, CA — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 20:39:00 GMT

Rice good luck on your advice to Terawi and others. It is a curious human trait that someone so miserable would want to have 12 children to share the misery. I am afraid that this human trait will prove to be the end of mankind.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Eddie G, NY, NY — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 20:40:05 GMT

It's time for a Marshall plan for Gaza. The area should be turned over to the UN. A formal border around Gaza. The UN should set up a temporary goverment. The nations involved should be the USA, E.U., Israel, Egypt, Jordan and the Palistinians. The infusion of money should go to build things needed to run a country. The Arabs could help build an airport on a man made island off the coast. They have been building many different shaped islands. This arrangement could ease security concerns with planes not flying close to Israel's airspace. Since the land mass is small, a network of light rails can crisscross Gaza. Build a seaport to get goods in and out. Build border points to have goods travel to Egypt to the south and Israel to the north. All this should be done by employing local residents. The area could be made into a Vacation destination, a banking center, the list is endless. I think all people feel that if you have something to be proud of, then they are not likely to let it get destroyed. We can see proof in the inner cities of the USA. When people have someting and they feel proud of what they have, then they will make sure it stays that way.
The question that needs to be asked is if you want this vision for yourself and your children.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

M. Long, South Texas — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 20:43:15 GMT

Israel has been the scapegoat for years. Even this article suggests Israel is at fault.

Israel has fought for its survival for decades against the Arab states.

Where is all the money poured into Gaza and the West Bank? Do you see factories? Do you see their leaders creating infrastructure? Do you see any Gazan or West Bank Exports? Except Terror?

NO but lets blames Israel for all the Arab troubles. Even Egypt is tired of Gaza. Even Jordon wants the West Bank to grow up and take responsibility for its future.

But PLO and Hamas can't be in control if their people are happy and things are good so they incite against Israel and dominate their own people without regard for the suffering of their people.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

j smith, ohio — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 20:48:29 GMT

To B.J. Rice - I agree with much of what you say, but take exception to one thing....back in 2000, when George Bush first received the APPOINTMENT to the Presidential office, we citizens of the USA took our duty very seriously, and we DID vote carefully. As a result, Al Gore won the election by over 543,000 votes. However, the Bush/Cheney political machine managed to hijack the election, and now the whole world is stuck with the current situation. Considering the continued undeserved soft spot that U.S. politicians seem to have for Israel, I cannot guarantee that the next President will be any better than this one - I am confident that they will not be any worse. God help us all!

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

chris, birmingham, al — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 20:50:26 GMT

BJ Rice- Even during Israeli incurrsions they still fired rockets at Israeli towns. In the face of ignorant aggression the only choice is to destroy or be destroyed. Israel has committed to cease fires in the past as rockets flew. They have pulled out of areas and pulled up settlements to give away their land and still rockets flew. Let me come to your house and start shooting your family members one by one and see how long you choose diplomacy over force.

Also, the selfish US and its selfish citizens give more in world charity than any other 3 industrialized nations combined. I hope people like you keep complaining so that the US will get fed up with hand outs only to get their hands bitten, then I won't have to give up anymore of my tax dollars.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Richard, Los Angeles — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 20:53:48 GMT

Simple Israeli terrorism in full display. Our tax money is being used to fund this criminal behavior day in, day out. What's funny is that Israel claims that they can't negotiate with Fatah because they're terrorists and they can't negotiate with Hamas either, but they seem to have the fortitude to build more settlements. I suspect that peace will come when Israelis stop stealing land, bulldozing houses, starving Palestinians, and jailing children (some as young as 8 years).

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Jon Phillips — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 20:58:39 GMT

When is Israel going to realize they will never beat the will out of these people. They should take out a map cut it in half and build the biggest wall ever between them.
Honestly at this point who cares about the land. The fact that this situation has been allowed to reach this point by us (the USA) is embarassing as a citizen. Israel can have Baha California, there used to the desert anyway.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Anrdrea Fairfield CT — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 21:00:55 GMT

Thank you Karl.

Perhaps someone will have the courage to give your report the airtime it most asuridly demands.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

B.A. Cohen, Montreal, Quebec — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 21:08:31 GMT

What a horror, my heart goes out to all those living in Gaza and the Territories. But one must realize that Israel will not negotiate with terrorists and those bent on her distruction. Peace became a reality between Israel and Eygpt, and it can again materialize amongst Israel's Palestinian neighbours if only the rockets and suicide bombings stop - and there exists a meaningful desire to build upon peace. Its time the Palestinian people realize this, rather than dance in the streets and firing their guns in praise of terror and distruction. Israel is far from ideal,yet those Palestinians that live in Israel proper have food on their table and day jobs. Now thats something to dance about !

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

David Goza, Norman, Oklahoma — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 21:19:44 GMT

People, ALL people everywhere: STOP HAVING CHILDREN! Have you ever heard of Thomas Robert Malthus? Have you given a moment's thought to what happens to a species when it over-runs the carrying capacity of the resources it depends on? Can't you see that that's EXACTLY what's happening to homo sapiens?

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

N. Foley, Southern Ireland — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 21:28:49 GMT

Funny the way many in the world keep referring to Hamas (as they once did to Fatah too, until it became Israel's Palestinian policeman) as 'terrorists'. This despite the fact that Israel illegally occupies both the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Resisting occupation of your country is not a crime or terrorism - to say nothing of the terrorising Israel does, cowing the Palestinian populations with its tanks, missiles and one of the best bankrolled armies in the world (120, half civilians including children, killed by Israel in its latest assault on Gaza) - but would be considered a patriotic duty in most countries - especially Israel's longtime ally, the US.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Pam from London — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 21:29:51 GMT

I now believe that Israel does not have any right to exist, before now I always wanted a homeland for them. By building 750 more homes on Arab land they are saying, we can do anything we want, we will do anything we want. I think the Palestinian government should step down, and stop doing anything that ressembles governing and that open war should be declared on Israel, and the world should not only offer its aid to a small deceived nation of arabs but that the world will see in the slaughter that will follow, and I hope on both sides, that the only future and justice for this beleaguered peoples of Palestine in the teeth of Israeli greed and lies, is for the world to do something and to take back the land the jews stole,or rather, which we the Brits gave to them and which they have extended year on year, torturing the peoples they took it from, to shut down fanatic zionist schools where those children were shot (ask yourself why they were shot)and to hand back to the palestinians what is rightfully theirs. To dismantle Israel's nuclear weapons as they want to do with Iran, and stop the rot which set in in the late 1940's, thanks to us British. So strongly do I feel about this that I would go, like we did to help in the Spanish Civil War, and give our lives for freedom, and I hope my two sons would follow me for the Palestinians, I know I would go and fight and help, I am so totally ashamed of Israel and the world jewry which stays silent yet people like Spielberg can open their mouths regarding china and anything else, but leave Israel to its evil ways. I feel so strongly about this and have no connection with arabs, yet I would lay down my life if I thought justice would be given to the Palestinians.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

lincoln, grass valley, ca — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 21:30:02 GMT

Nancy and John, I only wish I could set up a Hamas camp in your neighboring county and have them lob rockets into your neighborhoods. Some of us Americans are so ignorant. The Israelis clamp down so the terrorsitic Hamas government can't import mortar rounds and rockets. Jane, you are an outstanding example of why women in general should not be able to vote.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

pam — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 21:35:53 GMT

S B Stein, a jew no doubt, how many children do you think religious zionist nuts have, I know here in North London they have more than a dozen - they have as many as your good god gives them, and they can afford it believe me as they own large blocks of flats in their usury of life, because they are building a super race, in Israel too, so don't take the piss out of a Muslim who has 12 children

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Graham R-B — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 21:40:59 GMT

Israel has been begging for Peace for 60 years, though she has learned to live, survive and fortuitously thrive without it. Hamas leaders know they cannot live with true Peace which would mean the acceptance of Israel's existence. Hamas has declared war on Israel. Must Israel supply Palestinian daily needs in return for Hamas and their ilk's continued bombing, attempted and too often successful massacre of Israeli citizens?

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Darren, Rochester Minn — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 21:47:01 GMT

What if Mexico started sending in homicide bombers to Houston? We would retaliate and protect our citizens the same way Israel does. If Egypt did not provoke Israel in 1967, the territory would still be with Egypt. Israel pulled out of Gaza in 2005. The Palestinians chose a path of terror instead of building schools and putting people to work.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Sima Weiss, Jerusalem, Israel — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 21:51:49 GMT

The people of Gaza voted for Hamas...a terrorist network. They are getting what they asked for.
Israel, stupidly, left Gaza 100% to promote peace. What did the Gazan's do the very next day? They launched a barrage of rockets into Israel and it hasn't stopped since day one. The Palestinians cherish death...the Jews cherish life. The Palestinians have been GIVEN ON A SILVER PLATTER BILLIONS of dollars in aid for it's civilian population. And what do they do with the money?
They build rockets and missiles and suicide bombs, as they let their citizens live in squalor. It is THEIR
fault...it is not the fault of Israel. They could have used the money to build new housing, new schools and community centers, and a seaside resort. But they just perpetuate hatred and death and hopelessness on their own people. The alternative?
They could be living side by side with Israel in peace and prosperity. They CHOOSE not to.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Sima Weiss, Jerusalem, Israel — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 21:56:48 GMT

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

mike leibo, Roswell GA — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 21:59:04 GMT

It's horrible to watch the suffering of the people. Israel is defending itself in the only way it knows - it may be wrong but they cannot allow terrorists to fire missles into their country. The Palestians allow the terrorists to fire the missiles at Israel - The hatred has become so intense it's difficut for them to realize that their lives will become better when they stop firing missles into Israel.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Tareq Saleh, Malmoe, Sweden — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 22:04:37 GMT

How long has Hamas been in government? Two years?Israel has been killing palestinians since decades.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Mark Christopher, Washington, DC — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 22:17:38 GMT

They elected a terrorist organization to represent and run their de facto country. What can you expect when your leaders focus their attention on shooting rockets into Israel. News flash: stop the rockets (and terrorism), food and supplies will flow into the area and their can be peace and education, etc.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

david, new york,ny — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 22:30:02 GMT

how nice of hamas to give this reporter a tour of what they want him to see in gaza, along with all the proper one sided statements from the terrorist organization. how unethical of this reporter to allow himself to become a pawn of the terrorists.

still, even for all the deceit and propoganda of hamas, they still can't stop that palestinian from saying he is unhappy with hamas. of course, not for the murdur they are commiting or for trying to exterminate an entire nation, but because he doesn't have a good job.

well, if in teh name of allah you blow up israelis in coffehouses and shoot rabbis studying the talmud, its kinda hard to get the jews to hire you. why you dance in the streets at the murder of jewish high school students is kinda hard to explain on a job interview.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Bea G....Washington D.C. — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 22:31:02 GMT

It is the Arab's own fault. Israel only wants to live on their small piece of land. Why don't other Arab nations take them in? Also ... is is our fault that Tewari has TWELVE children? How many were born after he stopped working in 2000?

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Marty, San Diego, CA — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 22:32:21 GMT

Hamas has NEVER accepted the idea of a two-state solution. They would rather condemn future generations to never-ending violence than recognize Israel. If Hamas recognized a two-state solution and renounced violence the situation would be radically different. Israelis don't wake up each day planning new ways to kill Palestinian civilians. If Hamas keeps firing rockets, what chance is there for peace? They hate Israel more than they love their own people. For those who talk about the Hamas 'election' was the violent takeover of Gaza driving out Fatah part of the process?

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Ken Smith, Woodinville, WA — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 22:33:15 GMT

I just returned from a visit to the West Bank (not Gaza), and I confess, things look different from the other side of the green line. I've typically been a supporter of Israel, and I agree that Hamas is evil: but Israel has done many stupid things (the settlements, for instance), and has often been heavy-handed and stupid in its collective punishments and casual indignities. They've failed to learn the lesson Shakespeare outlined some centuries ago, in a speech by Henry V:

We give express charge, that in our marches through the country, there be nothing compelled from the villages, nothing taken but paid for, none of the French upbraided or abused in disdainful language; for when lenity and cruelty play for a kingdom, the gentler gamester is the soonest winner.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Keith Milliner, New York, NY — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 22:37:31 GMT

If Mexican terrorists started sending volleys of rockets into San Doego, do you think the U.S. would say "oh stop that naughty behaviour"? NO WAY they would wack the Mexicans so would any other Governments, Russia and Chechnya for instance but everyone condemns Israel who never attack without provocation. If the Arabs chose to co-operate with Israel, they could all have a very prosperous ans successful Middle East Economic Community with Israeli business savvy and Arab oil wealth they could all live a successful peaceful life. Wasnt this land called Judea in ancient times? doesnt that have a link to Jews? I think Jew comes from Judea? I dont see Biblical references to Palestine, Philistines maybe? The UN is a corrupt, inept organisation, basically focussed on bashing their financier, the United States, We should cut off all aid to everyone, stop fighting for their freedom until they beg us to intervene and help out,I am sick of the ingratitude.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

mark — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 22:43:22 GMT

Israel should start manufactoring Quassom missles. No guidance system and limited range. I think this will solve the problems of Hamas firing missles at Israei citizens.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Riaz, Seattle — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 22:45:29 GMT

"Do not worry about the media or world opinion. You do whatever you have to, to defend your country and its population. " Perhaps that is what Hamas thinks so too, when they keep firing rockets.

People always forget that Israel and US were the ones who "campaigned" for Hamas by first allowing them to participate in elections, second by blaming Fatah for all the ills and calling them corrupt. If you told how bad Fatah was, then what alternative people had except to elect Hamas ?

If Israel had vacated Gaza earlier on as part of the peace process, Gazans would not think it is Hamas who gave them freedom from the settlers.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Hannah — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 22:48:22 GMT

The main reason that Israel has limited commodities sent to Gaza to a bare minimum of essential items is that every time the border crossings to Gaza are opened the crossings are shelled or fired on by the terrorists. Even the emergency shipments of humanitarian aid have been used to smuggle arms & explosives into Gaza.
How do you explain Hamas' attempts to hit the Ashkelon power plant with rockets, when this plant provides Gaza with much of its power?
How is Israel supposed to react to the Hamas rockets aimed at Shederot, Ashkelon & all the other towns around Gaza? How would the US react?

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

bob stack — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 22:49:57 GMT

when will the plo and hamas get the fact that there will never ever be a palestine such as they see it . do they really think the jews are just going to hand it to them. why don,t they accept defeat like our american indian bros have, and turn the gaza into the monte carlo of the east.quit letting your people suffer, and get on with life.make peace.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

molly, Roseville, CA — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 23:11:08 GMT

Blame is a waste of time and of (more) lives. Eddie G from NY has it right. UN help make the peace, keep the peace, and give the people (on both sides of this border) HOPE.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

gord b. Sudbury, Ontario — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 23:12:07 GMT

I am so sorry to see what is happening in the middle east period. can someone please explain what created all of this in the first place. Cause i really care about all those who suffer, no matter who they are!! i do feel religion has nothing to do with it, but just pure hatred and greed. God didn't create this, man did.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

r barnett, bentonville AR — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 23:17:22 GMT

It is a shame nobody studies history. The Zionist terrorists that took this area and called it Israel (even though they admit they are not actually the house of Israel, but the house of Juda and are mainly Idumeans, captured in war and converted to Judaism....I'm not gonna explain history for u here...look it up and quit believing everything u hear as if it is fact because u are too lazy or blind to study for yourself. I followed Jesus, king of the jews, now man thinks I am a Christian. But man does not see with the same eyes as God..I followed my King..I am a true Jew known by another name. Study people study....Christians (especially u who follow Hagee)...wake up...study...learn...quit listening to todays saduccees and pharisees. There is nothing new under the sun. God loves u. He wants u to study and learn to hear his voice!!!

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

r barnett, bentonville AR — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 23:17:23 GMT

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Petros Panosyan — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 23:25:51 GMT

How will you people feel if some group of people come to your house and kick you and your family out of the house witch you have been living there for thousands of years.
This is what happened to the Palestinians, Israelites came kick them out and take there
homes and lives. And most of the Palestinians were taken to the refuge camps where there are No running water, no power and no life and future. How will you Americans feel about this? Think how the Americans kicked the British out of America. Back in the old days the American did what ever they could to kick the British out. If you Americans say the Palestinians are terrorists against the Israelis I think hey have good reasons to be one.
They did not become terrorists Israelis made the Islam to become terrorists.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Petros Panosyan — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 23:26:16 GMT

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Rational thinker — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 23:50:45 GMT

Israel is not a scapegoat; Israel’s government is the cause. Israel’s government has turned gaza into the largest prison on earth. People need to stop lying to themselves and look at the facts. This article tries to turn the suffering of innocent civilians, who unfortunately, many see as having lives that are not equivalent, as the cause of their own suffering. I am no supporter of Hamas. But Hamas is the scapegoat here. All one needs to do is research. Compare the number of innocent civilian deaths on both side and then tell me who the aggressor is. Read about the 750 new illegal settlements currently being built in the west bank on Palestinian land and then tell me who is “not a partner for peace.” Do your own research, think rationally, question everything you hear and the middle-east issues become so easy to solve. Actually you need one more requirement you must believe that an Iraqi life, a Palestinian life, an Arab life is equivalent to your life. And remember war is profitable.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Josh, Caldwell, NJ — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:23:45 GMT

The Israeli-Palestinian situation is the biggest smoke screen of modern times. The Arab League refused, and still refuses, to recognize the right of Israel to exist in their midst. They launched a war intended to exterminate Israel in 1948, and told the existing Arab population to clear out since a war was coming. When at first they didn't leave, the Arab nations told them that the Jews would "cut off your noses and gouge out your eyes" - things that Arab terrorists had done to Jews during the past 2 decades under the "guidance" of Haj Amin El Husseini, Hitler's apostle to the Muslim world, and Yassir Arafat's godfather. This created c. 850,000 refugees, which came under the control of the UNRWA. Note that c. 900,000 Jews were directly and forcibly expelled by the Arab League after Israel emerged victorious from the 1948 war, in direct violation of every applicable international and human rights law, but nobody ever talks about this. Since 1949, the Arab League, with the collaboration of the UNRWA, has trained and incited generations of Palestinians (who only got their nationality after 1967, not before) in nothing but Jihad, suicide-terrorist missions against Israel, and the same Jew-hatred the Nazis taught their children. The UN has stood by and watched without comment as generations soaked in hatred were raised in Gaza and the West Bank. For all of their oil-borne wealth, none of the Arab nations care a damn for the Palestinians, and have said so openly. On the contrary, they refuse to provide any Palestinian with permanent resident or immigrant status, always forcing them to return to the squalor and poverty of the WEst Bank and Gaza. By now, if the Arabs cared a fraction for what they say about the Palestinians, they could have:

1) Rebuilt their infrastructure 10 times over in the last 20 years, with new housing, roads, and public facilities.

2) Resettled most if not all of the Palestinian population across the vast lands belonging to the Arabs (99.5% of the Middle East is theirs, 0.5% is Israel's)

3) Given them even a fraction of the decent life that, for example, is being built today in Dubai.

Instead, they have been using the Palestinians as their shock troops to launch terror attacks against Israel since day one, hoping to gain concession after concession from Israel until she is essentially gone off the map.

Saudi Arabia now continue to fund Hamas, as does Iran. No Arab nation wants this problem fixed, because it would mean they would have no reason against coexisting with Israel - and having a democratic Jewish state in their midst, with equal rights for all religions, with women given the right to vote and work - AND ON WHAT MOSLEMS CONSIDER TO THE THEIR LAND SINCE MOHAMMED CONQUERED IT c. 700 AD - will never happen in this generation of Arab despots, theocrats and monarchs who see democracy and freedom as the greatest of all threats to their power.

There is too much to write about in one message. Here's the summary - stop the terrorism, terror apparatus, the vicious Jew hatred, and the satanically cancerous cult of martyrdom and death that the Arab League supports, and has become the death-loving ideology of the West Bank - and you'll have a chance for peace. Hold the Arabs accountable fot eh wars and misery they have wrought in this region for over 60 years, and demand real change in their world, and you may see some long-term changes for the better. But as long as the Arab League continues to control the situation, support and incite Palestinian terror, and is never held accountable - this peace is a cruel pipe dream.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

jai ganpat, n.j. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:27:19 GMT

say whatever negative you want to say about the jewish state, and when you are done just ask yourself what are the arabs doing with all the oil dollars? i believe the un can put all that aid that they are giving to the terrorist in gaza to better use. why not give it to the peace loving people of the world? i say just let their brothers help them.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Patrick O'Reilly — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:29:42 GMT

This is the quality of life we can expect when we are under Jewish rule.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

D. Burger, Jamaica, NY — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:50:37 GMT

I'd like to remind Nancy that Israel removed its own citizens from Gaza and handed the territory over to the Palestinians. (So much for Israel's image as the "killing machine" responsible for "all of the atrocities".) One would hope that the Palestinian authorities, whether Hamas or Fatah, would use the former settlements, including greenhouses that had been the economic engine for the settlers, to the advantage of its people. On the contrary, though, as soon as the Israelis left, the Palestinians tore the greenhouses and settlement houses apart, just as they literally tore apart - with their bare hands - two soldiers who made a wrong turn into Ramallah on the day the first intifada began.
Nancy: get your facts right and your misguided emotions in check.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Cody Chamberlain, Spokane, WA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:53:54 GMT

I think a major problem now is with Hamas in control the money that is for the people will get spent on trying to kill more Israelis, and others they see as an enemy. This will of course only make the situation worse.

I personally believe that Israel should simply flex its power and end the conflict, not with diplomacy mind you, and move on.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Neal, Philadelphia, PA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 01:00:15 GMT

If you look at the big picture this is everybody's fault and this conflict has a deep history. It was a mistake on the part of the US,Israel, and the quartet to create such a tight embargo that has caused much suffering among the Palestinians that caused them to knock over the border wall and buy needed supplies. This is no way to ease some of the anger Palestinians have towards Israel. However, Hamas are a bunch of lunatics and they cannot be negotiated with and will not stop until Israel is destroyed. However to say that palestinians by voting for Hamas declared war on Israel is absurd. Many people in Gaza have no hope just like this man in the article. Many people worldwide have lost hope in a peaceful resolution of this conflict and are just apathetic about it. There are calls right now for Israel to forcibly topple Hamas, which will probably be successful but who knows what the aftermath would be in the middle east. Until a responsible, stable palestinian government emerges in this region, there cannot be peace and the rocket attacks will only continue. Eddie G has the right attitude by saying that everyone should cooperate to build up the Gaza strip and employ the people of Gaza in order to keep them away from resorting to terrorism. But sadly this is not the reality and only a dream for now. Instead of letting our emotions get the better of us because this is such a heated topic, let us all look at the facts objectively since there is truth in every opinion posted on this discussion board.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

ISLAM , BOSTON — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 01:05:35 GMT

If democracy means that everyones vote counts, then the palestinians have voted for hamas. Lets respect that and NOT admonish them for practicing their human rights. I am a doctor of history and we always look at SEQUENCE OF EVENTS.Isreal was created in 1948, so where does that leave the palestinians. I don't know about you, but to me when someone comes to my land and takes away from me on the grounds of GOD giving the land to them, I say the hell with you and your God's. Give me my land back. I want my home, leave to where you came from now. Everyman of reason will give the rights to palestinians to fight to get their lands back.For those that call the gazan's terrorist is conveniently manipulating the truth so they can continue their slaughter and holocaust against palestinian and children. It is very easy to change history on paper, but that will not change the course of history. Palestine will be liberated and that is just a fact. It may take 100 years, even 1000 years, eventualy the truth prevails. I pray for peace for everyone. I hope we can be fair,even against our own people. we judge today only to be judged tomorrow. be fair people.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Emil Schafer — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 01:09:49 GMT

Hamas seems to be super efficient in smugglin g in armments, guns, explosives and rockets. With there smuggling skilld, they should apply them to smuggling food, medicine, fuel and all the things that Israel and the UN Relief organizations have supplied for over 50 years. These Palestinians are professional "refugees" refusing to get out of their rut as it might imply recognition of the partition and thereby legitimise Israel in their eyes. They did not recognize nor accept the partition so their claim to Palestina land is negated; they accepted nothing! And they still have NOTHING! Until the 6-Day War, Israel did not enter or control the so-called "West Bank" or the Gaza strip. Still Arab attacks continued on an almost daily basis. Why did they not endeavor to build a country, a society ? The answer to that question is evident in their present miserable condition, a self-imposed conditiion.

When you look at photos of cities in the West Bank and Gasa, they do not resemble "tent cities". The Un has supplied billions in construction materials; witness the multi-story structures. Why seek peace for as "professional refugees" they are given what other people throughout the world have to work for.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

James G Honolulu, HI — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 01:30:08 GMT

Hamas hasn't learned the old adage..."don't bite the hand that feeds you"...

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Scott Joseph, Bemidji, MN — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 01:38:44 GMT

They elected a government that stated it wanted to war against Israel. Israel moved out of Gaza. The Palestinians' response was to launch rockets at Israelis. This clown thought life would be better under Hamas. He deserves EVERYTHING he gets.When the Palestinians stop electing governments that wish to destroy Israel, then maybe they'll get out of this mess. Germany and Japan are prosperous today. This was not so when they were at war with decent governments and run by thugs.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Josh, Caldwell, NJ — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 01:53:54 GMT

"Israel will ALWAYS be the terrorist and ALWAYS be responsible for any atrocities committed. They're punishing a group of people for exercising their democratic rights!"

Israel pulled out of Gaza in 2005 and turned it completely over to the Palestinians. She did this to try and get some peace in the area. Instead, since her pullout, approximately 4,000 rockets and missiles have rained down on across women, her children, and her civilians in Sderot, Ashekelon, and now Ashdod. Don't speak of Hamas being improverished - Hamas has received tremendous resources from Iran - $500 million in cash assistance, millions of rounds of ammunition, thousands of anti-tank missiles, materials for making hundreds of homicide bomb belts and vests - get the picture? None of this is being used to improve the lives of the people who voted them into power. Hamas promised a change from Arafat's corruption, where $8 billion was stolen from the PA and ended up in Arafat's pockets. Arafat, under the guise of a "Peace Process", used Oslo to get Israel to concede as much control of security as possible, and then launched the "intifada", which was the most savage terror war ever hurled at a civilian population. After Israel endured 1,500 dead and 5,000 casualties of civilians horribly maimed by homicide bombing explosions, she managed to smash the intifada, after which the Palestinians screamed for a truce, meaning they needed time to re-arm. After Arafat finally dropped dead of AIDS, probably contracted from one of the young boys the Russians would typically procure for him, it was finally revealed that he had stolen c. 8 billion dollars, or essentially all of the international aid the world had pumped into the P.A., which had brought nothing but death and unending corruption to the West Bank and Gaza. One very big problem with that whole "change" thing promised by Hamas - Hamas is a bunch of terrorist murderers, and they couldn't give a rat's ass about their "own" people in Gaza. Hamas and Al Qaeda are today's Nazis, but with an Islamic twist - ready to blow up every one of their young as long as they can murder Jews or infidels in the process. Do you know what terrorism is? It is when a Hamas murderer goes into a Jewish school with an automatic weapon, murders 8 teenage students with his gun, and the Hamas "government" describes the mass-murderous attack as "heroic". It is when little Palestinian kids dress up in Gaza and the West Bank in hooded terrorist outfits, wear fake bomb belts and bomb vests, and follow their Hamas instuctors while they chant praises to the "heroic martys" who blew up busloads of Israeli civilians before them. It is when the state-run Hamas TV takes a caricature of Mickey Mouse and has him telling children how horrible Jews are, and that Allah has cursed them.

Today's terrorism is an Islamo-Nazi kult of worshipping death far more than you would probably ever value your own life. But for the teenage Palestinians who are being raised by Hamas and the other Islamo-Nazi groups as bomb-fodder, death is more than just a means of mass-murdering the hated Jews and sending them to hell - it is the young terrorist's ticket to getting laid in heaven by the 72 virgins.

FYI terrorism is also when gays in the West Bank and Gaza are beaten up and murdered, and when young people who are dating and holding hands in public in Hamas-held territory are assaulted by the Hamas religious Gestapo. Terrorism is when journalists are threatened with death by Hamas if they release any photos that show the Hamas infighting and killing of hundreds of their own, since that would reveal the true face of the Islamo-Nazism that is Hamas.

"How can Hamas help its people when they have no resources and are being slaughtered left and right?! People need to wake up and realize what's really going on here- the killing machine is Israel and always has been!"

Israel has never, and never will, target civilans - no more than the U.S. or any civilized nation would. But Hamas not only sends their murder squads to kill Jews - whether by homicide bombing a bus of Israeli civilians, blowing up a bunch of college-age Israeli kids at a night-club, or by shooting up a bunch of religious Israeli school kids - but they base themselves entirely in civilian zones - a war crime by every international law. Like all terrorist cowards, they hide behind the skirts of their own women and the schoolbags of their own children. When the Israelis come for the terrorists, the terrorists cowardly use of civilian zones as human shields guarantees that civilians will be killed. They even invite Palestinian schoolchildren to form a human chain around them when the Israelis come for them, telling the children that if they die protecting the terrorists, they (the children) will be shaheeds and will live forever in heaven as heroes and martyrs. This is the bloody tutelage of terrorists, guaranteeing that their own children will be killed in the crossfire when the terrorists shoot at the Israelis while hiding behing their own women and children, and knowing full well that the mainstream media and simpletons like yourself will always blame Israel for these tragic deaths, and never once hold the terrorist agents of death responsible.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Anonymous — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 02:40:51 GMT

At least Israel demonstrably tries to do something for the Palestinians, unlike their Arab brethren who treat them with even more contempt than they do Jews. Surely Israel has done some wrong things in its history, sometimes really terrible things ... but it has also done a lot of good and has stood for key principles like democracy, equal access (when possible) to the various holy sites, and courts of legal recourse. By contrast, the Arabs show very little real interest in any of those three things, preferring to kill Jews and each other as a perverse way of glorifying God.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

C. D. Z. Queens, New York — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 02:58:50 GMT

This person commented about the 2 years under Hamas (terrible) and the 10 under Arafat (miserable). No mention of the years under Israeli rule since 1967 which were the best years these Arabs had ever expeienced. Israel removed the sewage from their streets (which the Jordanians and Egyptians did nothing about), gave them running water, electricity, jobs and schools which their Arab brothers refused them. When Israel foolishly and needlessly invited Arafat back into Palestinian lives, he proceeded to steal the aid meant for them, bought weapons, sent their children to blow themselves up and changed the school curriculum to indoctrinate the students with implacable hatred.

There is no longer the possibility of peace with the Arabs, no longer any reasonable expectation of a two-state solution. The only way these people can exist peacefully is if they are accepted back into the massive countries that are occupied by their Arab brethren. Saudi Arabai, Iran, Syria, etc. all have ample room to give each family living space and they have enough petro-money to get them on their feet and to leave Israel alone. These countries choose not to help simply because they despise the Palestinians as much as they hate Israel. The Palestinian is looked down upon (Egypt just closed their borders to them too why should Israel be considered worse?) and are interesting only as an excuse for their murder of Israelis and their unending war against any non-Moslem.

It is an odd viewpoint that equates Israeli activity with that of the Arabs. Israel bends over backwards to avoid civilian casualties while the Arabs search for them. If the Israelis are so cruel why do they keep reopening the border? Every time they allow the Arabs in there is ultimately a bombing or other murder. The Israelis are either stupid or overly kind-hearted and they aren't stupid. These arabs can no longer get jobs in Israel - whose fault is that? Maybe the many murders that they commit has something to do with that - Israel now has to import 10s of thousands of Phillipinos to fill the jobs once held by Palestinians prior to Arafat. If this person is poor it is not Israel who is to blame.

Hamas gave him $100 weeks ago - and what happenned to all the billions given by the US (not by Saudi Arabia mind you). It looks like someone has to pay for Kassams and bullets, and the people who intercept the money feel that this person's children should go hungry today. It will help reinforce tomorrow's lesson in school blaming Israel for everything.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

WW III — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 03:29:21 GMT

we give millions of dollars a year to Israel with no accountability. They say they want peace and yet continue to build settlements in contested areas....
Can you trust either side?

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Adam, Wisconsin — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 03:45:55 GMT

Can Ismael Terawi, and those like him in Gaza move to a more prosperous part of the Islamic world, such as Saudi Arabia or United Arab Emirates?

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

P White — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 04:19:01 GMT

All of the pro-Israel arguments offered derive from a chauvinistic nationalism that permits no influence from common sense observation. One of the fundamental rules of logic, a sense of proportion, goes out the window when Zionistas talking about Israelis killing Palestinians (with American weapons and money, worse yet). Look at all these people trying to defend the indefensible. It's obvious that some supporters of Israel watch the news reports coming out each day, eager to jump on the comments pages and spew out propaganda they memorized from talking-point lists circulating in their communities. Israel is like a graven image that they worship.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Jim Spencer, Metropolis, IL — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 04:51:03 GMT

How can anyone deny Israel the right to defend itself?!? They should do it now before Hussein Obama becomes president and OFFICIAL U.S. support dries up.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

R.Salah, Oklahoma City, OK — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 05:52:54 GMT

I have read and heard enough to make me sick. Everyone is blaming the Palestinians,Hamas, the PLO, etc..yet no one wants to know the reason behind all this mess. Israel was created with the help of the great powers on a land belong to Palestinians with all faiths. The bottom line is this: Israel don't want peace, never did and never will. We cannot blame Palestinian people for the misery they live in. If Israel accepted resolution 242,338 and 94 that was set by the UN, we would not have the problems of today. If the USA did not veto the resolutions and have forced Israel to go back to 1967 borders, we would have a happy Palestinians today in a state of Palestine. The US continue to support Israel and veto every action against it. Israel continue to assassinate, blow up and kill Palestinians every day. I just returned from the holy lands and was shocked at the way the Israeli's treat the Palestinians, look at the wall separations, look at the blockades between cities and villages, look at the suffering of those people in Rammalla,Nuplus, Jerusalem, Hebron, Bethlehem, and every where else on the west bank and Gaza. Is that justice, is that freedom, is that living..??? Aggression create resentment and fighting back. That is no way to create peace, justice, freedom. Israel is committed to never give up the Land they took by force, Israel committed to take more and build settlements everywhere. I saw the building of Jewish homes on Palestinian lands, mountains and Vallie's. Don't believe the propaganda of Israel,or our own media that has no power to tell the truth, go see it with your own eyes then tell us why Hamas or the Palestinians all together are disgusted of waiting for their Palestinian sate to be created since 1948. That is 60 years already. Some wrote that Israel has the right to defend it self!! Do the Palestinians have the right to defend themselves?. Anyone who believe that Israel want peace, or love to see a Palestinian sate next door is a fool and blind. The only way to force Israel to accept the return to 1967 is with equal power, Just like the case with Egypt. But the Palestinians don't have it. All Arab countries are bought staring with Egypt, Jordan,etc..All the Arab countries also agreed to live with Israel and respect its border if Israel would return to 1967 borders including west Jerusalem. Israel rejected the offer, laughed at the Arabs and continued its aggression. I have no reason to feel sorry for Israel for the simple reason of its continued occupation of Palestine. The Roman power fell, Ottoman empire fell, Great Britten fell, Got the message?

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

J. Stewart, Ashland OR — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 07:04:19 GMT

Let us not forget that Israel stole the land from the Palestinians in 1948! The UN tried to partition it, but the Palestinians never accepted the deal. This gives them continued right to fight for their land. While no one wants to see violence, Israel is perpetuating one of the most egregious violations of human rights ever seen. They refuse peace at every turn, continue to steal land from what is left of the Palestinians Territories',engage in numerous blockades of food and essential supplies, enact grossly biased trade restrictions, restrict Palestinian travel with hundreds of blockades
throughout the West Bank, fence the Palestinians in with a 26 foot high concrete wall, and kill dozens of Palestinians each and every day, because they belong to groups that are dedicated to fighting against the inhumane treatment of Palestinians by the
state of Israel! - treatment that is just the same that experienced by the Jews during the lead up to the Holocaust - do we get it now?

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Jared, Arcadia, California — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 07:56:13 GMT

I like the way that Eddy G thinks. It is and was nice to think about to solutions when you hear of problems. I do not have the ability to say that I am educated about the fighting over there in Isreal, and my parents are Jewish, though I have found Jesus Christ. I do however know of a woman who visited Isreal and the wailing wall; she the sister of a pastor, and daughter of another pastor, and of God,told our church that at the wailing wall the palestines are separated from the jews, i think those were the two 'groups' of people separated, but if not, it is not the point- but that the groups would actually throw rocks from one side of the wall to the other side, hoping to hurt each other. God how harmful. But on the plus side in the Bible it says that men will live to 120 years old, I have only just began my walk with Jesus Christ, but rejoice because I just heard on MSNBC, that a woman was found to be 120 years old, in all of the places of the world? Israel. As you can tell I do not have much of an education about what is going on in the "East" but I do appreciate kind hearted people that took the time to post here after reading the story. Prayer works if you need it to, but the LORD has a plan for us greater then our own. I pray that you read this without bias, realizing that I am just rambling stuff that I believe, but that my point was to repeat what I read from the post by Eddy G.

"It's time for a Marshall plan for Gaza. The area should be turned over to the UN. A formal border around Gaza. The UN should set up a temporary goverment. The nations involved should be the USA, E.U., Israel, Egypt, Jordan and the Palistinians. The infusion of money should go to build things needed to run a country. The Arabs could help build an airport on a man made island off the coast. They have been building many different shaped islands. This arrangement could ease security concerns with planes not flying close to Israel's airspace. Since the land mass is small, a network of light rails can crisscross Gaza. Build a seaport to get goods in and out. Build border points to have goods travel to Egypt to the south and Israel to the north. All this should be done by employing local residents. The area could be made into a Vacation destination, a banking center, the list is endless. I think all people feel that if you have something to be proud of, then they are not likely to let it get destroyed. We can see proof in the inner cities of the USA. When people have someting and they feel proud of what they have, then they will make sure it stays that way.
The question that needs to be asked is if you want this vision for yourself and your children." Eddy G

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Glen Pekofsky, Deerfield, IL — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 09:06:35 GMT

I agree with the points everyone has made, on all sides. The one point I can add is that, regardless of blame, the kids growing up in Ismael Terawi's home must surely be experiencing something truly horrible, and I cannot imagine that any of those 12 children contributed in any way to their current condition.

I don't think that giving children in unfortunate circumstances a chance to have a happy existence amounts to taking sides. Call me a bleeding heart, but I truly feel that there is a nobler path for the citizens of Israel, the U.S., and many other countries of the world to follow when it comes to children living in squalid and deplorable conditions.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

JD, utopia — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 10:48:47 GMT

a whole lot of morons are responding to your articles... including me maybe?... yes! when all there are are morons. Terrorism for state or for any reason is terror. The repercussions will percolate into the world over, if not immediately but soon enough. undoing is never easy as doing.

For one Gazan, there is ‘no hope’

Norman, ny,ny — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 12:17:06 GMT