I don't think it's a good idea to assume intent from either side.  Israel says they are not targeting civilians.  Although I haven't seen any evidence for this, lets assume Hammas says they want to kill as many civilians as possible.  Either both sides are lying about their intentions, or they are incompetent at achieving their intended goals.  The problem is the use of violence on both sides. 
 
Leaders on both sides benefit politically from committing acts of violence on the other side.  Right-wing politicians in Israel benefit when they counter Hammas attacks, which they don’t get to do if more attacks aren’t instigated.  Hammas benefits politically by standing up to Israel when they launch rockets in retaliation for lost land and all those dead Palestinian civilians.
 
People support leaders who actively fight for their cause.  Peace talks are slow and arduous while bombing is instant gratification. 
 
Killing civilians perpetuates the cycle on both sides.  The situation requires a mediator who benefits politically from sustained peace, like the US, when peace in the region is our intention.

by YourLeftOne on 01/05/2009 11:53:52 AM EST