The Aftermath of the Disengagement

Those who had been following the various disengagement scenarios in the media have noticed the rapid pace of evacuation of settlements and its demise. There had been fear of widespread resistance and violence. While there were pockets of resistance from the hard-core right wing, which were not even residents and just arrived for the sake of provocation. Much remains to be done in rehabilitation and housing of the settlers within the green line of Israel.

The settlements fell like a pack of cards under the action of the various bulldozers and within ten days - total destruction. Now the big challenges are on the horizon. Where does one go from now?

The soldiers and police acquitted themselves very well indeed. They deserve praise for the restraint shown. Many resisting settlers and their youthful fanatic supporters had exhibited much violence. There were insults, spraying of paint and even acid on the forces. Despite that, there were no serious injuries and the pullout was peaceful and achieved rapidly.

On reflection of the various scenarios observed, the irresponsible behavior of many of the settlers was disgusting and was no credit to their cause. Many had made cynical use of their young children who had undergone trauma as a result. These parents have nobody to blame but themselves for the psychological damage done to their children. They pushed babies into the arms of soldiers while parents went into a hysterical screaming frenzy. At the same time, they cursed their evacuators. The brainwashing of young children to resist and hate is a total disgrace! Suddenly religious fanatics started turning almost every stone and plant into a religious symbol. The establishment of macabre religious rituals dehumanizing the Security Forces who had protected them over the years made horrifying viewing. Cynical use was made of their faith in their opposition to leaving. Many had not taken any responsibility for planning their future and avoided taking advantage of the generous help offered by the government.

Now that their palatial homes are gone, the rebuilding of their lives will begin. There will be plenty work for social workers and psychologists. These settlers, encouraged by the previous governments in the past, were doomed to leave from the day they started building their palatial homes in the Gaza strip. It was shear governmental folly allowing an island of affluent settlers to live in the midst of a poverty-stricken hostile Palestinian population. They had received many benefits and tax reductions from the previous governments in the past as well as army protection.

Many settlers had compared their plight to the treatment of Jews under the Nazis. This was so far from the truth and it will backfire on them. The settlers will receive much compensation from the government in housing and future employment. The theatrics of a relatively prosperous Jewish Community amidst a Palestinian impoverished community was the order of the day prior to the disengagement and its duration was pathetic. They had it very good during the period that they had lived in their "Nirvana".

What will occur on the Palestinian side? How will they react? The Palestinians will celebrate a victory. They will see the disengagement as a first step towards more concessions by Israel. Hamas will be crowing victory and view this step as a hint that terror pays. Mahmoud Abbas has done very little apart from paying lip service to cessation of terror. He will not stop Hamas from carrying out terror attacks. There will be a certain amount of negotiations under fire as Palestinian extremist terror groups will carry on the butchering as usual.

It may not be long before the Israeli Defense Forces will move into Gaza once again to contain the terror. There has been no change in Hamas and Islamic Jihad towards recognizing Israel's right to exist. There are signs that they will be gaining increasing support from the Palestinians. This does not leave room for optimism until they lay down their arms. There is a possibility of violence within the Palestinian camp between the various factions. What may unite them to a certain extent is the partnership that Mahmoud Abbas will give them. The key to peace lies with the Palestinian terrorist groups. As far as they are concerned, the armed struggle against Israel's existence will continue. At least the settlers have been evacuated which will make Israel's borders easier to defend without protecting settlements as well.

Another view of Marmaris from Mares Hotel in Turkey 

The Disengagement Scenario and Future

Over the last few days, we have all watched scenes of the disengagement on TV, which have left many people with mixed feelings. Some of the scenes are heart rending and others very frustrating. Many settlers have resigned themselves peacefully to their relocation from the doomed settlements while others have put up cynical resistance.

Some settlers have been showing resistance and have been making cynical use of their small children in demonstrating against the inevitable. The masses of rubble of many palatial homes are now the order of the day. Despite supporting the disengagement, one cannot help but feel certain empathy for those who have to leave their homes. Those who have left peacefully and offered no resistance deserve our support and help for relocation in the Israeli heartland. Those who offered resistance and used almost every violent demonstration trick by pelting the soldiers with acid, and insulting those carrying out their duty, deserve punishment according to law.

It was terrible to see the abandonment of pets in the massive exodus from the territories. How could people be so heartless and cruel! Cats, dogs, puppies of all sizes and poultry are left to die of thirst and hunger. This is one of the worst aspects of the disengagement. Nobody cares about them. Thanks to some volunteers with inadequate resources from the animal welfare societies who lack funds, are fighting a losing battle to save these unfortunate animals. Why has the government not given a thought to this? Do pets deserve this cruel treatment?

The blame for this scenario is the various governments of Israel since the Six Day War of June 1967. The predecessors of the Labor Party - Mapai were no less to blame than the following Likud Governments. A false optimistic vision for the future created an impetus for the settlements. Why were people encouraged to move to areas occupied after the Six Day War? Surely, it was preferable the occupied areas remain closed military zones and a bargaining chip for a future peace agreement! Look at what has happened! Now nearly two generations of settlers have grown up in the Gaza strip with battalions of soldiers risking their lives protecting them from Palestinian terror groups. Now they have to leave with their dignity dented and find new homes. Was it worth it? These settlers were doomed from the start. A hostile Palestinian population who never wanted them as neighbors surrounded them. A generation of young radical Palestinians growing up in poverty and overcrowded conditions had grown up alongside affluent and wealthy settlers. This in itself had increased the animosity of the Palestinians towards them. Many of these radicals have become involved in organizing and carrying out terror.

What is going to happen to the occupied areas of the West Bank? Here the situation is more complex. There is the issue of Jerusalem, which is difficult. There will be pressure to withdraw from the West Bank as well once the Gaza withdrawal is completed.

There is no doubt that more withdrawals are on the horizon compounded with the problem that Hamas and Co are not showing any signs of recognizing Israel's right to exist under any circumstances. Hamas and Co will be major card players in partnership with the Palestinian Authority.

The future scenario will be very grim unless the uncompromising mindset of these radical pressure groups change. If there are withdrawals from the West Bank, it is doubtful if that would get wide ranging support from the Israeli population as the Gaza withdrawal did.

View of Mamaris Harbour from Mares Hotel 

A view of the sea from the top on Jeep tour not far from Marmaris,Turkey 

Mares Hotel beach in Marmaris 

Another view of Marmaris Harbour  

A view of Marmaris Harbour, Turkey 

The Armed Struggle, Hamas & Co Style will continue

Already there are hints that the armed struggle against Israel will continue irrespective of the disengagement. Hamas has said that much. There have already been provocative statements even from Mahmoud Abbas. Are we on the threshold of renewed terror after the disengagement, including the possible establishment of an Al-Qaeda cell in Gaza in the near future?

This is not an easy time for Israel. The disengagement decisions are the correct ones from a moral standpoint. However, when there does not seem to be a serious partner with whom to negotiate about the future, many very serious questions and misgivings remain. The withdrawal of settlers within the green line in the disengagement decisions is a necessity for a smooth transition from Israel's point of view. The Palestinian Authority may also hold that view. However, the playing cards as to the future lie in the hands of Hamas who seem to be increasing their influence in Palestinian street. Another point of concern is the fact that they have remained an armed militia with Islamic Jihad. Mahmoud Abbas has decided to appease the terrorist groups by not disarming them. This does not bode well for the future of peace in this area.

To date, Mahmoud Abbas's Security Forces have not shown any signs of controlling the terror. There does not seem to be any hint that there will be an improvement in that situation. This means that the Israeli Security Forces will be withdrawing from Gaza but will have to remain very alert to any escalation of terror that could occur after the withdrawal. The firing of Qassam rockets as well as missiles into Ashkelon will remain a strong possibility.

The advantages of the disengagement are twofold. This is the reason why it should be supported, despite its inherent dangers:

1. The Israel Army will not be utilized in protecting settlers in occupied Gaza from Palestinian terrorists with great risk to the lives of the soldiers.
2. Israel's international standing will improve, as the world will view Israel favorably because of her attempt to disengage from the Palestinian areas conquered in the Six Day War of June 1967. Israel will not be seen as an occupier, which has been a very strong propaganda factor, utilized by the Palestinians.

These two factors are very important in justifying Ariel Sharon's position for disengagement. The inherent dangers in the aftermath of the withdrawal remain. The alternative to disengagement would be even worse. The thought of settlers remaining in the occupied areas could create an even worse scenario in the future. More bloodshed and loss of life in continuous clashes with the Palestinians would remain the order of the day.

The Jewish Fascists

How short memories are! In 1933, the Nazi Party under Hitler came into power in Germany. Germany in pre-Nazi times was one of the most democratic countries in the world. The Nazis abused the democratic system in Germany by slogans, rabble rousing, incitement, war mongering and last but not least anti-Semitism.They were elected to power democratically. The results of that are well known! Had Germany banned this lunatic fringe at that time, would there have been an outcry that democracy in Germany is being threatened?

What is the difference? The Jewish Fascist movement Kach (and their racist offshoots including various tsitsit and kippa-cladded pseudo-religious louts) does not espouse to democracy but abuses the democracy system of Israel as a means for their ends. There is no doubt that if Kach would be legal and gain power, there would be no democracy in Israel and many people would suffer because of their abuse of power and not being Jewish.

The prevention of these louts from carrying out racist incitement and violence serves democracy. Many of these extremists will be joining the opposers of the disengagement in demonstrations at the 11^th hour before the deadline on the 14 Th August. There have been macabre prayer services at the Western Wall and the masses of people that gathered were frightening.

The biggest danger to Israel these days come from these right wing extremists. They are the lunatic fringe and are involved with incitement. Those who are involved in the incitement to flout the law are rabbinical leaders whose influence amongst the right wing religious movements is high. Former chief rabbi Avraham Shapira is a case in point. Another prominent religious Zionism rabbi, Rabbi Shlomo Aviner, has also goaded the soldiers not to carry out army orders. There is an inherent danger in these pronouncements. It gives legitimacy to anarchy and does not serve the purpose of democracy.

Nobody denies that the settlers who have been living in Gush Katif are experiencing trauma. Nobody wants to be evicted from his or her home. However, these people are to be compensated and are not being left in the wilderness. They are paying the price for the follies of past governments who had legalized and encouraged settlements in areas that are not and never were part of Israel.

The worst and most dangerous aspect of disengagement is the cynical use made by the Jewish Fascist movements to violence and breaking the law. The violence can endanger lives and does not serve any purpose. The disengagement is legal and was passed by the Knesset and upheld by the High Court of the land. This being so, citizens must obey the law despite their right to protest their opposition peacefully.

A Despicable Act

It is predictable that an extreme right wing religious zealot would indulge in a terrorist act. The indiscriminate shooting witnessed on a bus in Shfaram is despicable and ought to be condemned in the strongest terms. This terrible tragedy is horrifying.

There is no difference in this abominable act by a Jewish terrorist and the suicide acts of Palestinian terrorists. This despicable human being, Eden Natan-Zada, received his just reward. People say that the fatal lynching that he received was barbaric. If a surviving Palestinian suicide bomber would have been lynched would this be less barbaric? There is a definite double standard here.

Terror is terror and this evil act cannot be condoned any less then the despicable terrorist acts committed by Palestinian terrorists.

Kach and company are alive and well. Their fanatic rabble-rousing rabbis are behind them. This is another aspect of the orange adorned extremists. These extremist firebrands hide behind their fringes (tsitsit), long sidelocks (peyot) and large knitted kippot. Under all these symbols are racist monsters that are closer to fascism rather than democracy. There is a frightening trend in Israel that is making cynical use of democracy and breaking the law at the same time. The newly religious as symbolized by this despicable terrorist, Eden Natan-Zada , is the beginning of a trend, which will gain ground if not nipped in the bud. Tapuach, a settlement beyond the green line, seems to be a breeding ground for this kind of trash. They believe in following the footsteps of the late arch racist, Rabbi Meir Kahana.

This is a breeding ground for the dregs of Jewish Society, whose contribution to Israel is nil. The cynical use of terror to side track the security forces from Gush Katif is horrifying. We must not fall into the trap of trying to find a psychological reason for this kind of terror. This would mean a form of justification. The same ploy was used by anti-Zionists on numerous occasions to try to find psychological reasons for Palestinian terror.

It seems as if we are on the threshold of a "Jewish Hamas" or "Jewish Jihad" style terror group hiding under orange ribbons and Jewish symbols. Many call this the lunatic fringe on the right.

What is incomprehensible is the Israel Army's inability to disarm a soldier who was AWOL. There was no attempt to trace this deserter, especially if he was armed and potentially dangerous. According to reports, the family of Eden Natan-Zada had appealed to the army to disarm their son and their pleas were ignored.

Now is the question of burial. Perhaps it would be a good idea to cremate this terrorist's body and flush his ashes down the toilet! This should be the fate of all terrorists no matter from where they come.

A dangerous precedent has occurred under the orange right wing lunatic fringe. There are many potential right wing zealots waiting in the shadows poised for committing another frightening terrorist act.

A Theocracy in Israel - God Forbid!

It would not be in the interests of Israel if people lose faith in their secular government and elect a theocracy ruled by rabbis because of disillusionment or despair. This could easily result in the country losing its democratic character very rapidly. Today establishment Judaism has become the monopoly of the right wing largely settler movements. Their rabbis are charismatic rabble-rousers and could gain massive support by many people. Another very important point to remember is that Orthodox Judaism is the antithesis of democracy. The voice of moderation in Judaism has become almost non-existent.

Judaism, as practiced in Israel, does not accept different interpretations even within the various streams of Judaism. A case in point is the non-Orthodox streams such as Reform (Progressive) and Conservative Judaism. The Orthodox establishment does not recognize these streams and they are unable to marry couples legally or be involved in the conversion of non-Jews to Judaism. In fact, members of the non-Orthodox streams are regarded with much contempt.

Israel would slide into a form of fundamental Judaism with very strict interpretation of Halacha. There would be no place for secular Jews in this country. The government could introduce heavy fines for people who ride on the Sabbath or do not observe Shabbat according to Halacha (Chilul Hashabbat). Laws according to Halacha for festival observance would find itself in the statute books and these provisions enforced by a non-Jewish police force on the day of these festivals of observance. The provisions of these punishments would be according to the Torah. Heavy fines and prison sentences for "non-penitents" will be the order of the day. Is there any place for democracy under such a system? The country would slip into a legal system not that different from fundamental Islam. People who see their salvation in a Halachic state are not aware of its implications.

The introduction of a system of discrimination towards non-Jews could occur and their status in Israel would be in question. Rules of modest dress would be introduced - maybe not the "burkha" for women but certainly dress that would cover their whole bodies. There would also be limitations on women's freedom.

Those who wish to convert to Judaism (it would be difficult to imagine that under these macabre circumstances there would be such people) would find it impossible. Israel would be cut off from the modern world and her contribution towards the planet would be negligible. The educational system would suffer, as a narrow school curriculum based on Torah studies would become acceptable. The economy would suffer, as there would be no competition. Israel would be dependent on economic aid from the Diaspora.

There would be a police service manned by non-Jews on the Sabbath whose purpose would be to enforce Shabbat laws. The ramifications of a fundamentalist Jewish state would be scary. Those secular Jews who have the means would leave en masse.

Admittedly, many readers could view this article correctly as a total exaggeration. Nevertheless, its purpose is to illustrate the direction that Israel could find itself if ruled by rabbinical extremists.

There should be total separation of state and religion. This would ensure prevention of erosion of democracy and that people of all faiths as well as secular people do not have curtailment of their basic human rights. Freedom of religious belief would not be in jeopardy.

After the Pullout - What Then?

At this time and place, not much thought given for the future. This applies to both Israelis and the Palestinians. There does not seem to be any "contingency plans" on either side. Is there any cause for cautious optimism? The Palestinian side is in disarray. Mahmoud Abbas, the Palestinian Authority chairman, has not given any indications as to what will be done with the territories that the Palestinians will acquire after disengagement. Israel has not given any indication as to what plans she has for her citizens either.

All that remains is speculation. The territories vacated by Israel could fall into the hands of Hamas and Islamic Jihad and their terrorist allies. This would bring terror closer to Israeli towns such as Ashkelon and possibly Ashdod. Mahmoud Abbas will do very little to reign in the terror. He has done nothing in the past and there is no sign that the future will be any different. The settlers will not be in Gush Katif anymore and this will make the situation less complicated when it comes to defending Israel's borders.

It is quite possible that Israel will return to the Gaza Strip because of terror attacks against her from the Palestinian terror groups. The possibility of returning to square one is high.

However, if by some miracle, the pullout is peaceful, Israel's standing in the world will rise. The world of nations will view Israel in a positive light because of her attempts to end the occupation. This could result in weakening of support for the Palestinian position. Israel will also have to change her attitude towards the Palestinians and help them economically by encouraging investment in the territories as well as joint Palestinian-Israel economic, education and health projects. This is dependent on a cessation of Palestinian violence against Israel.

There has been gross neglect in Israel in the social and economic sphere because of the pre-disengagement tactics of the government. After the disengagement, the government must be more active in improving education, lowering the crime rate, which has increased at an alarming rate, as well as encourage projects for Israel's economy. Unemployment has become a very serious problem as well as salary erosion. The government has to address very serious problems. Polarization because of the disengagement has to be rectified by encouraging dialogue between the anti- and pro-disengagement parties. There should be emphasis on the fact that Israelis are still one people despite their political and religious differences. It is important that a healing process has to follow between the two sides and the settlers who have returned must be encouraged to be part of the rebuilding of trust between the opposing sides.

Comparison to Martin Luther King's Freedom March on Washington

How disgusting! There is no comparison to Martin Luther King's famous march to Washington DC on August 28, 1963. The anti-disengagement marchers are certainly no freedom fighters nor are they stalwarts of democracy. Many are religious fanatics whose aim is to maintain their right to settle in Gaza and not make any sacrifices for peace, which is for the well-being of Israel in the end. Their religious zeal is occupation of lands and not a march for human rights and democracy. This is a march of abuse of human rights. Tom Segev had mentioned this fact in another article. He compared it to the march on Rome under Mussolini.

The comparison to Martin Luther King jnr's aspirations could not be further from the truth. These right-wingers are NOT democrats nor have they any aspirations to be such. They are religious Zionist fanatics of the worst kind whose ideology is not very distant from fascism. They take the law into their own hands. Now some are giving support to the assassination of PM Ariel Sharon in macabre "pulsa denura" ceremonies. Where does this compare with the late Martin Luther King jnr? It takes a rather twisted and sick mind to make this ridiculous comparison. Apart from that, Martin Luther King's March was legal whereas the anti-disengagement demonstrations are not. They have created havoc towards those who were not involved by blocking roads and burning tires not to mention damage done to private property.

The settlers in Gush Katif have made very little contribution to Israel. Perhaps their contribution is to increase the population according to the first commandment. They have complicated the negotiations for peace with the Palestinians, which is not straight forward as it is. They have a fanatic religious zeal to conquer Palestinian land and pay any price to remain there.

They make cynical use of democracy to attain that goal of settlement expansion amongst a population that does not want them on their doorstep. These settlers are not fighting for democracy or human kind but for their own selfish and racist interests. They wish to keep the Palestinians under occupation and a cheap source of labour for working in their hot houses. There is nothing democratic or liberal in their ideology. One must also remember that fanatic, orthodox Judaism which these people follow is not democratic and is bound up with conquering territory and subjugating the Palestinians.

The disengagement has its pitfalls. When Israel had withdrawn from occupied territories such as Sinai and Yamit in the past, there was no Hamas, Islamic Jihad to fill that vacuum. Today, there is some danger in the withdrawal. Hamas and Company terrorists could fill the vacuum because of the disengagement. They may continue firing Kassam rockets and missiles into Israeli towns such as Ashkelon – not to mention Sderot, which is still under fire from the Palestinian terrorists.

Today the Palestinian Security forces are in total disarray and their ability to control the terror against Israel is highly questionable. Nevertheless, it is not in Israel's interest to remain in Gaza and sacrifice soldiers lives in order to protect settlers living in Gush Katif. They must return to Israel's mainland.

Ken Livingstone – the Mayor of London has done it Again

Ken Livingstone – the Mayor of London defends the use of Palestinian suicide bombers. Apparently, the honorable gentleman differentiates between terror directed towards his own people and Israeli citizens. He condemns the London bombings in very strong terms but justifies Palestinian terror when directed at innocent Israelis. This person is an example of double standards second to none.

The reasoning is crooked and illogical. It also illustrates Mr. Livingstone's total ignorance of the Palestinian-Israeli dispute. He views the Palestinian as the underdog, suffering and subjected to inhuman treatment by Israel. He also sees Israel as abusing Palestinian human rights. This gives the Palestinians legitimacy to kill innocent Israeli citizens by using the suicide bomber. According to him, Israelis are violent and the poor Palestinians, who have limited resources to defend themselves from the might of the Israeli Army, are using a legitimate tactic against Israel.

This means that Mr. Livingstone is not a man of peace. He condones terror when directed at others and not his own. He is an amoral person. Terror is terror that is directed towards innocent people. He who does not condemn terror will eventually be a victim of it himself. There is no such thing as justifiable terror or otherwise.

Does Mr. Livingstone not understand that Israel has an existential problem with Palestinian terrorists such as Hamas, Islamic Jihad, Al-Aqsa Brigades and all the other splinter groups including factions of Al-Fatah. These terrorists are not prepared to recognize Israel's right to exist. Does Mr. Livingstone support the Hamas Charter hell bent on Israel's total destruction? Of course, Mr. Livingstone I presume, you support that as they are only fighting for their freedom from the occupation. Livingstone said that Israel has "done horrendous things which border on crimes against humanity the way they have indiscriminately slaughtered men, women and children in the West Bank and Gaza for decades."Does Mr. Livingstone know that the suicide bombers have taken refuge amongst the civilian Palestinian population and whose families were promised over $500 by Iran for every family who sacrifices a "martyr" for the sake of getting seventy virgins in heaven? Surely, Mr. Livingstone, your ignorance is misconceived bliss.

None who condemns terror when it is close to home and supports terror elsewhere when it is far from home and for the sake of expediency can be taken seriously. Mr. Livingstone you are a total disgrace to your country and show lack of knowledge in what is happening in the Middle East. What about Britain's participation in the Iraqi War? Do you regard the suicide attacks in Iraq by Iraqi terrorist factions against U.S. and British soldiers and civilians as legitimate? After all, according to your logic, they are fighting the occupation with limited resources. I fail to see the difference here between Al-Qaeda, Hamas and Zarqawi – maybe you do?

The Triangle

Much is happening these days on all sides of the conflict, which is between Palestinians pitted against Israelis and Israelis pitted against one another. The scenario is unbelievable - almost surrealistic! The pro-disengagement establishment is confronting the extreme right wing anti-disengagement groups. The vacuum created allows Israeli security to be compromised to a certain extent as witnessed when a suicide bomber succeeded in infiltrating and blowing himself up in Netanya – killing five people and wounding countless others.

While this is happening, Hamas and Company are having a field day launching Kassam rockets and mortars into Shderot within the green line and the various settlements in Gush Katif. This is the one corner of the triangle. The second corner is the opposition of the right wing against disengagement that is tying up Israel's police force and the army to maintain order and prevent illegal demonstrations. The third corner of the triangle is the attempted infiltration of Palestinian terrorists because of the vacuum created by the lawlessness of the anti-disengagement movement under the orders of right wing rabbis, which threatens security of Israel's citizens. Overall, the country is drifting into a rather odd form of anarchy as each corner of the triangle does its own thing.

Danny Rubinstein, raised an important point in an article in Haaretz. Hamas and their Allies will continue to do their utmost to upset the applecart of disengagement. The reason is, as Danny Rubinstein correctly pointed out, that the corrupt Palestinian Authority will not share the lands evacuated with Hamas. It will be in their (Hamas) interest not to have disengagement at all under these conditions even if it means sabotaging the disengagement process.

Maybe from their point of view there is logic about this tactic. Arik Sharon has stated that there will be no unilateral disengagement. This will play into the hands of Hamas and Company. It is a matter of them cutting off their noses to spite their faces. As far as Hamas is concerned, let there be no disengagement if they cannot enjoy the results of the spoils. They will be able to accuse Israel of not complying with agreements reached and they with the Palestinian delegation will go squealing to the UN accusing Israel of prolonging the occupation and not keeping their word about disengagement. This will create a certain unity between the Palestinian Authority and Hamas.

From the Palestinian point of view, it is Hamas who had been more active in terror than the other factions, including Fatah. They feel entitled to being part of policymaking in the Palestinian Legislative Council. It is very doubtful if Mahmoud Abbas will give in to their demands at decision-making. Hamas and Company see themselves as being responsible for winning the battle against the occupation by having Israel under Arik Sharon approving disengagement.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, we have the opposition to the disengagement whose several thousand supporters are now encamped in Kfar Maimon on their way to Gush Katif. The police and army have surrounded their encampment. It is an uncanny situation now. Those who oppose disengagement, as well as Hamas and company, wish to do their utmost to ensure that disengagement does not take place – each for their own partisan reasons. Both extremist groups are really two sides of the same coin of self-destruction. The right wing, under the influence of their inciting rabbis, is a threat to democracy in Israel. These rabbis are not showing any leadership qualities by encouraging their flock not to obey the laws of the land. Judaism has now become the monopoly of the right wing under the leadership of fanatic rabbis.

Those who oppose the disengagement are destroying the country that nurtured them. They are creating a schism that will serve the interests of the Palestinian terrorist groups. While the security forces are involved in maintaining law and order in the anti-disengagement camp, the terrorists will continue with their attempts to infiltrate Israel as Israel's underbelly becomes more exposed.

The fact that so many Israeli soldiers have fallen in their line of duty protecting the Gush Katif settlers does not seem to make any impression on the right wing. They are obsessed with the idea of remaining in the Gaza Strip at all costs.

If sanity does not return to this part of the world and incitement between the various parties does not cease, this includes the extremists in both Israeli and Palestinian Camps, we shall have more bloodshed in the future as the poor chances of a peaceful settlement becomes even dimmer.

Orange Ribbons and Terror

On 12^th July 2005 at 6.30 p.m. a suicide bombing occurred in Netanya that killed four people and injured scores of others. There had been a certain amount of complacency over the past few months. There was relative calm from suicide bombings in Israel. Now it is occurring again. The right wing, with their orange ribbons, has been engaged in anti-disengagement activity resulting in the police becoming involved in keeping order.

The demonstrators planted dummy bombs at various public places in Jerusalem tying the police up in dismantling them. It would not be surprising if Islamic Jihad had been observing the right wing demonstrations and the way the security forces had been involved in dispersing them. This had served their purpose by default. If the police are so involved keeping law and order because of the right wing demonstrations, surely this affects their resources for preventing Palestinian terror.

The orange ribbon crowd is a danger to Israel's well being. They are helping suicide bombers to infiltrate by tying the police up with their dummy bombs and demonstrations.

They disrupt traffic by blocking roads. Parents are making cynical use of their children in anti-disengagement activity. They are weakening Israel's anti-terrorist activities. It is hardly surprising that a suicide bombing arrives to bring us all to our senses.

Sharm-al-Sheikh agreements between Israel and the Palestinians, resulting in a cease-fire, created an impetus for Islamic Jihad to regroup. They achieved this under the nose of President Mahmoud Abbas. While he had promised to fight terror and paid lip service to doing so, he had in fact, done nothing.

There is no doubt that Mahmoud Abbas has proved that he is unable to rein in the terror. He prefers to have friendly back slapping chats with terrorist leaders residing in Damascus and Lebanon in the hope of containing their terrorist activity. He seems to be playing a similar game to Yasser Arafat. He pays lip service against terror while allowing it to occur unabated. He has not arrested one terrorist nor has his "Security Police" taken any deterrent measures.

This country is back to square one in its fight against terror. If Israel would help Mahmoud Abbas with intelligence without publicity, and he shows a desire to cooperate with Israel in the fight against terror, maybe the suicide bombings would cease. However, if cooperation with Mahmoud Abbas in the fight against terror is publicized, the latter stands a chance of losing support and being branded as an Israel lackey or US stooge. His life would be in danger from extremists in his camp.

There is no doubt that Israel has an existentialist problem with the Palestinians if not with the Arab world at large. There are signs of Palestinian pragmatism but these signs are not strong enough to build trust in order to carry the peace process forward to its conclusion. Islamist terrorists such as Islamic Jihad and Hamas will not allow this to happen. The Orange Ribbon right wing demonstrators, who are neutralizing the Israeli Police in their fight against terror, are also aiding Hamas, Islamic Jihad and Company by default.

The Terror Attacks in London

London has witnessed one of the biggest attacks on her transport system in history. There had been warnings in the past that London is a potential target for a mega terrorist attack. It was a matter of time before it would occur. The time had arrived and caught the British People by surprise. The nature of this attack is similar to Al Qaeda mega attacks in Madrid on 11^th March 2004. This is typical of an Al Qaeda attack. Their aim is to kill as many people as possible. It is a terrible tragedy. It would not be surprising if some Al Qaeda cells cooperate with Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Palestine as well as Islamic Jihad.

These attacks occur because the world is expedient towards the Islamist militants. Many Moslem Arab immigrants leave their countries of origin for pastures anew in the West. They brought their baggage of frustration with them. Many failed to "make it" in the West. They vented their frustrations on their adopted countries and some became Islamist militants.

Israel had been suffering from terrorist attacks for many years whether it is suicide bombings of innocent people, strategically placed homemade pipe bombs and so on.

The reaction of the West, while condemning these vile acts of terror against innocent people, had also been apologetic towards the "poor frustrated Palestinians" under Israeli occupation. They all tried to find a "psychological reason" for suicide attacks and perhaps show understanding for terrorism backhandedly. The same attitude prevailed towards militant Islamists. They never realized that this attitude would boomerang onto them as well. Many of countries, who had been easy on Arab immigration en masse, are now reaping the fruits of their tolerance, as many mosques had become havens for terrorist activity. These Islamist terrorists had used their adopted countries to hit at the West for their own failures. No country is immune from Islamist terror today. The West, in its hunger for oil and fear of the oil weapon against them, had adopted a tolerant immigration policy toward Arab immigration. Can one find a valid "psychological reason" for the cruel attacks that occurred in London?

Anybody who tries to differentiate between Hamas, Islamic Jihad, Al Qaeda, Hezbollah and all other splinter Islamist Groups waiting in the shadows to strike out against innocent people wherever they are, are bluffing himself or herself into a sense of security. There is no difference! All these terrorists have one thing in common – to kill and maim as many people as possible, irrespective of their faith, creed and color! This is their common ideology. They may have various superficial differences in their so-called "fight for liberation". This Islamist terrorist cancer is the result of a laissez faire attitude by the West towards Islamist immigration. Many Islamist Mosques established in Britain became the focus of Islamist Militarism in various sermons on Fridays. They used the freedom of democracy in their adopted countries to destroy Western values and spew hate against the West. They operated not only in Britain but also in many countries of Europe unhindered by the law. It is a matter of time before there is another Islamist terrorist act against one of these countries. These Islamist terrorists are going against the teachings of Islam. While the Arab Countries have condemned the bombings, there are elements that have been indifferent.

The various Al Qaeda cells that nurtured on the democracy of Europe are now attempting to destroy the system that nurtured them. It seems as if the situation has gone out of hand. Al Qaeda and its splinter groups have tentacles all over the world and there does not seem to be any leads to combat them.

While the world is not united in combating terrorism and confusing elements of terrorism with "freedom fighting" Hamas, Islamic Jihad and Hezbollah-style, Islamist terror will threaten Western values and democracy for many years to come.

Tohar and Shimon on Mt Tabor. The view from here is outstanding. 

The Hate Campaign of the Right

Dangerous times have descended on Israel. There has been a certain respite in terrorist activity against Israel. This is due to a number of reasons. The Security Forces have become more efficient in halting terror attacks and there is a partial cease-fire on the Palestinian side. The country is gearing itself for the pullout, which could turn out to be unilateral. Much depends on the Palestinians and the right wing anti-disengagement groups as to the success of the disengagement.

However, there is a matter of great concern. Those arrested for violent demonstrations against the pullout have proven to be ideological fanatics. These fanatics in their fight against disengagement have made cynical use of minors. Many of them have been brainwashed by their parents and rabbinical fanatics. The police have arrested them. Their parents teach them that murder is legitimate and this is very frightening. Their parents have been encouraging their children under arrest to misbehave and cause damage in the name of their cause. Their rabbis have been encouraging violence.

As one jail warden said, the next political murder could arise from these fanatics.

Over the years, and under the various governments in Israel, the settler movement beyond the green line was granted legitimacy and praise for their salt of the earth idealism. The government had encouraged these people to settle the occupied territories. They had tax exemptions, state benefits, lived in palatial like homes and had an abundance of cheap Palestinian labor on their doorstep. They are a spoilt group who received everything that they wanted. Many soldiers had done reserve duty in the occupied areas (including the writer) in order to ensure their safety. Soldiers had to leave their families in order to protect these people from terrorist action. This had cost the state much money. All for the sake of these "pioneers" who had a religious duty to colonize and populate the biblical Land of Israel beyond the 1967 borders.

The various political parties including the National Religious Party, Likud and other right wing splinter groups had given them support in their endeavors. Everything was fine until the intifada had broken out. The folly of these settlements has been realized – but very late! It should never have occurred in the first place after the 1967 June War. After so much violence and the loss of many lives – Israeli as well as Palestinian, Ariel Sharon – the father of the settlement movement realizes that Israel must leave Gaza and the settlers of Gush Katif must return home. All this, despite the ideals of the Likud and maybe a twist of Ariel Sharon's arm by the present Bush Administration, have resulted in the decision for disengagement from Gaza.

The anti-disengagement supporters have become virulent and they may be viewed as an offshoot of right wing religious Zionism. They have been educated to believe that land is more important for the survival of the Jewish People than anything else. They regard themselves as superior to the Arabs and they are racist. There is no doubt that they are a blot on Israeli Society and the damage that they have caused to Israel's standing internationally will take many years to repair.