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Palestinian Independence, for Real
- Abstract
In the weeks before the UN General Assembly began debating a resolution that would recognize an independent Palestinian state, the world got a preview of what the creation of such a nation would mean. In late August, a series of deadly terror attacks against Israel were launched from Hamas-run Gaza. The resultant “cycle of violence” consisted of Israeli attempts to counterattack terror strongholds, matched by a massive barrage of missiles launched against cities in southern Israel. These actions demonstrate that despite the claim that Palestinians have been denied freedom and sovereignty, there already is an independent Palestinian state on Israel’s doorstep. Gaza is not only an Islamist tyranny, but also a secure terror base. That is exactly what would arise if an independent Palestinian state, including the West Bank, were under the control of a terrorist movement such as Hamas—or even the supposedly more moderate Fatah party of Mahmoud Abbas. Gaza is not merely the contemporary face of Palestinian independence; it also provides a glimpse of the future should Israel ever allow the West Bank similar independence under conditions akin to those today.
About the Author
Jonathan Tobin is senior online editor of COMMENTARY.
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