Israeli Airstrikes Kill Hundreds in Gaza

by Deb Cupples |  CNN reports that Israeli air strikes on Gaza have killed at least 170 people and wounded at least 250 more.  The strikes came after Hamas reportedly launched missile attacks against Isreal, which reportedly happened after the six-month cease fire between Israel and Hamas was allowed to expire.  The Egyptian government has sent personnel and supplies to help treat the injured in Gaza.

The Associated Press reports that a spokesperson for Hamas called upon Arab nations "to take a stance against this massacre and not to be satisfied with just condemnations." 

BBC News reports that both sides are blaming each other for the escalation of violence:

"Hamas blamed Israel for the end of the ceasefire, saying it had not respected its terms, including the lifting of the blockade under which little more than humanitarian aid has been allowed into Gaza.

"Israel said it initially began a staged easing of the blockade, but this was halted when Hamas failed to fulfil what Israel says were agreed conditions, including ending all rocket fire and halting weapons smuggling.

"Israel says the blockade - in place since Hamas took control of Gaza in June 2007 - is needed to isolate Hamas and stop it and other militants from firing rockets across the border at Israeli towns."

I don't know enough to validly comment, but Memeorandum has commentary.

Comments

[Americaneocon]

It's about time!

[Buck Naked Politics]

Yes, it's always time for vengeance and slaughter if you're an american neocon.

It won't do any good in the long-term and will only cause Israel to be more hated and to attract more such attacks, but vengeance is theirs, I suppose.

It goes without saying that Hamas is wrong. It would be better if Israel had decided to be right, which could have taken many forms besides the months of ongoing violence they are now promising.

http://bucknakedpolitics.typepad.com/buck_naked_politics/2008/12/israel-gearing-up-for-longterm-action-against-hamas.html

DAMOZEL---not D. CUPPLES

[Ron Russell]

It was past time for Israel to act--I suppose the upcoming election forced them to do what the public there has been calling for. Politicians always get edgy around election time--strange!!

Hamas is getting what it deserves. It has kept the people in the Gaza Strip hostage for long enough. Hamas will continue to hide behind the civilians and show pictures of them when they are killed and the world media will buy what they are selling. "one born every minute".