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Mr. Benn's article approaches this conflict as if it were an academic issue, ahistorical in approach. Hamas was elected overwhelmingly in Gaza not because of "Arab extremism" but because of the occupation and economic embargo. Its continued settlements in Palestinian territory and the subsequent disenfranchisement of their people and walling off of their territory into small enclaves that are both economically and socially unviable have resulted in Palestinian radicalization. The problem is that the Israel government and its oft rogue military still hasn't learned the basic lessons of responsible nationhood: that you must win the peace in order to win the war. Perhaps to Mr. Benn violence as a first resort is acceptable under the lens of extreme nationalism and tribalism and one can even argue that a country founded on terrorism as Israel was is still too young to understand what is necessary for its long-term survival. The Likudniks and their radical agenda have created a situation that will come back to haunt all Israelis--the majority, of whom, are moderate but who find themselves under an extremist government due to the coalitions formed under their parliamentary system. This action into Gaza may make some Israels feel good about themselves, despite the civilian deaths and casualties they cause, but they are alienating allies. Israeli interests do not automatically equate to U.S. interests. All of the political pandering here in the U.S. will have little sway should Israel come off as just being another nation under the rule of a religious sect murdering civilians, including children, under the banner of its cause based in self-justifying tribalism and superstition.
