I'm frustrated here by my lack of knowledge of military tactics. I can't believe that the Israeli army's only possible strategy on the ground is to lob shells in the general direction of the enemy, but I can't suggest an alternative. Research is indicated. But I am heartened by the fact that Israel's old enemy Egypt is co-sponsoring a peace plan which includes stopping the smuggling of arms into Gaza for Hamas use.
When it comes to long-term solutions... were I Israel, I'd mobilise the army to build schools, hospitals, utilities, etc, in Gaza, much as the US military participates in natural disaster relief. This would be more than a PR coup - it would undercut Hamas's support amongst Palestinians who see them as the only guys who get things done. Plus surely Hamas would baulk at attacking such targets. This may be a pipe dream, but I wonder if anything like it has ever been tried.
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timeasmymeasure
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Date: 2009-01-11 12:23 am (UTC)When it comes to long-term solutions... were I Israel, I'd mobilise the army to build schools, hospitals, utilities, etc, in Gaza, much as the US military participates in natural disaster relief. This would be more than a PR coup - it would undercut Hamas's support amongst Palestinians who see them as the only guys who get things done. Plus surely Hamas would baulk at attacking such targets. This may be a pipe dream, but I wonder if anything like it has ever been tried.