ANALYSIS-Hamas growing stronger, without firing a shot

[Jmaxfie1]

ANALYSIS-Hamas growing stronger, without firing a shot

* Middle East revolts strengthen Hamas control of Gaza

* Fortunes of rival PA fade; unity calls likely to grow

By Crispian Balmer

GAZA, Feb 23 (Reuters) - Hamas is having a good revolution.

The unrest that has transformed the Arab world outside the tiny coastal enclave has boosted the standing of the Islamist group within Gaza and strengthened its position against the rival Palestinian Authority, which holds sway in the West Bank.

Hamas greeted the downfall of Egyptian former President Hosni Mubarak with euphoria, sensing that his departure would weaken Israel's stranglehold on the impoverished territory that has crippled its economy and confined its inhabitants.

Mubarak's exit has also deprived both Israel and PA President Mahmoud Abbas of their closest Arab ally, leaving them suddenly exposed in a rapidly changing region.

"The next Egyptian government will never accept the suffocation of Gaza. There will be an end to the blockade and to the isolation of Hamas," said Hamas spokesman, Fawzi Barhoum. http://af.reuters.com/article/egyptNews/idAFLDE71M0GK20110223">MORE

[Turbineguy]

1. The fall of Mubarak

likely means it's easier for them to get arms across the border. Organizations like Hamas are the primary justification for Israel's stranglehold and the reason for Palestinian poverty.

[azurnoir]

2. So then do you believe Mubarak's removal was a bad thing?

as to robbing the PA/PLO of their closest ally that remains to be seen does it not, however it may be true for Israel

[Jmaxfie1]

3. No

Usually any good move also brings about unintended results. I think the fall of a dictator, even if he is an "ally", is always a good thing.

[shira]

4. It's bad if what comes after him is much worse, agreed? n/t

[azurnoir]

5. that remains to be seen doesn't it?

and by bad exactly what you mean or are you saying that a government less 'friendly' to Israel than Mubarak's will be bad for Egyptians due to Israel's reaction?

[shira]

6. Of course and...

What I mean by worse, as in the effects of theocratic rule on the people as well as actions WRT Israel.

Do you agree regime change would be bad if that were to happen?

Yes or No?

[azurnoir]

7. I said Israel reaction something you avoided by turning it around

but that was expected, as to worse your much touted 'theocratic' rule, you mean a democratically elected government then it may or may not be it remains to be seen

[shira]

8. Another non-response, no surprise there. n/t

[azurnoir]

9. oh I did respond but not in the way you desired

common though when some not getting the answer they want simply say you didn't answer

[Name removed]

10. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[azurnoir]

11. in a post on a different thread and on another subject

and you interpret to suit your needs

[shira]

12. That post helped to finally reveal your POV...

Since Arabs within rogue Rightwing regimes never before revolted or complained to the UN, that means in your view they were unified with their leadership.

Also, to criticize the leadership is to criticize the people - and that's racist, which is why you're against it.

[azurnoir]

13. you are indeed creative n/t

[shira]

14. Explain how I'm wrong please? n/t

[Jmaxfie1]

15. Yes, I would have to agree with that, however, I'm willing to give the protestors the benefit...

of the doubt. Hopefully this doesn't turn into a bunch of Irans. I guess to use that old political phrase, I'm "cautiously optimistic".