Hamas has won. What's next?

Submitted by Boris (United States), Jan 26, 2006 at 12:26

Things are developing so far according to my favorite plan (see my note "Hamas must win!").

Positive results from Hamas victory, in my opinion, are:

1. Hamas position on Israel becomes official, not just position of some isolated group of people.

2. Israel may shift to the right knowing that now they will have less chances to negotiate, even if Hamas starts making some peacemaking moves.

3. The US government and EU lose some of their arguments in pushing Israel to make peace with Palestinians. Their weakened position protects Israel better.

4. Syria face more confusion - if they officially celebrate Hamas victory and show more support to new PA, they isolate themselves even more, if they don't - they lose their reputation as an opponent to Israel.

5. Iran has to demonstrate its position on Hamas victory. Knowing their previous statements on the subject, I expect another stupid move from their part.

From all sides I see Hamas victory as a positive event for Israel. Your comments, Dr. Pipes?

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