Public Security Minister Avi Dichter told Channel 10 news on Sunday evening that Hamas needs a continuation of the Gaza ceasefire more than Israel, admitting the extension of the agreement would be mutually beneficial.

Dichter explained that while Israel is interested in extending the ceasefire, it will not be at any cost and the continued situation will not be permitted to continue. Since the rocket fire from Gaza began a number of years ago, there have been over 7,500 rockets he reports and almost 1,700 in 2008. The minister explained that Israel must act on several simultaneous tracks, including the return of its deterrence abilities. He explained that there is a long list of options towards accomplishing this goal, and to date, many items on the list have yet to be implemented.

Hamas must be taught that the rocket attacks “simply do not pay” and the price exacted by continuing attacks into southern Israel will be too high.

There can be no comparison made between Hamas and PA (Palestinian Authority) areas in Yehuda and Shomron he stated, citing that the standard of living in Gaza is considerably lower and the economic realities in Gaza paint a picture of dire conditions, with Hamas aware it needs stability and does not wish to engage Israel at present. There are over 1.2 million residents in Gaza and they are looking at the Hamas administration to provide jobs and a livelihood. In addition, Hamas support in Yehuda and Shomron is not at all as widespread as in Gaza.

Israel is also aware that every rocket coming over the Gaza border is authorized by Hamas, no matter which terror organization claims responsibility for the attack. Hamas will learn that it cannot expect to continue carrying out attacks while Israel continues to exhibit restraint.

The deterrence will be returned and it will bring long-term quiet to the southern region.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)