LogFAQs > #977108093

I dont see why Israel should agree to anything with regards to Hamas itself without the release of all hostages. Ideally Id like its leaders in handcuffs, but seriously doing anything that involves leaving people in Gaza at their mercy while Hamas rearms makes absolutely no sense, given the fact that the last time Israel was in this position, it took five years to get Gilad Shalit out.

That being said, from a humanitarian perspective, the best thing Israel could do right now is agree to a two or three day ceasefire with the understanding that they will provide humanitarian aid to civilians - and allow UN workers to do what they need to do. The tactical disadvantages theyll have to put up with as a result are worth showing the world that they actually give a damn about the people of Palestine, regardless of the current fate of the hostages. I do not see that to be remotely unreasonable, and I also think a pledge to help rebuild Gaza should be made as well.

I also believe the time is now for the Israeli public to tell those West Bank settlers to take a hike back into Israel proper. If Israel truly wants to rebuild its image as a country that isnt committing genocide - I mean those are good starting points.

Israel, in my estimation, made a massive tactical error here. By assuming the world was just going to be ok with taking any measure to eliminate Hamas like it was with the wars against Al Queda and ISIS, it forgot that if you are going to play the role of the good guy, you have to act like it. Now is as good a time as any to remember that.