[Sephiroth]

Originally Posted by ianch99

So many times now, I, and others, have absolutely condemned Hamas and its actions. Are you such a pedant that every post must includes the words "and I also condemns Hamas and its barbaric actions"?

Seriously, I do not know how to respond to posts like these.

There is a huge gap between what you write, condemning Israel as distinct from condemning Hamas.

I know exactly what you mean: It's the question as to whether or not Israel should continue its mission in the light of the civilian deaths.

Your answer is obviously 'No'. But you are not on the receiving end of Hamas rockets; you were not involved in the barbaric murders of 1200 Israelis. From Israel's point of view, eliminating Hamas is the goal they must achieve.

Then you'll say that Hamas will never be eliminated; the next generation will rise from the ashes etc. And then you might go on to say that a political solution for 2-states must be negotiated to avoid the next catastrophe..

Well yes, you'd probably be right but the 2-state solution requires will on both sides and that includes the Ultras of Israel and the cooperation of Iran. All pigs will fly stuff.

So what will stop the Israeli military action?

1. They've captured the Hamas leaders;

2. They declare their mission accomplished. That's possible and 31-Dec looms.

3. External political pressure (and no further supply of materiel) wins the day.

I know how to answer you. I can quite see why you don't know how to answer me.