Critics at home fear Israel will emerge as a casualty of its own war

[bigtree]

'When it is over, the IDF will have to take a good look at itself'

Ian Black in Jerusalem
Thursday July 27, 2006
The Guardian

{snips}

The Israeli government is facing a barrage of criticism over its handling of the war in Lebanon, with questions about the decision to attack Hizbullah, mounting military losses, strategy and tactics, continuing missile strikes and disquiet about Lebanese civilian casualties.

Commentators question whether key decisions were thought through in the context of an overall strategy: these include the swift response to the July 12 attack, the bombing of Beirut international airport despite warnings that this would trigger retaliation against Haifa, and the destruction of Hizbullah HQ in southern Beirut. They say the government's response has been to shift its goals and lower public expectations.

"Even before we know who will win this campaign we can state with certainty that Israel has suffered a terrible propaganda defeat in Lebanon and the Arab world," wrote the Ma'ariv columnist Jacky Hugi. "One country cannot destroy another without explaining to the neighbour the logic behind its actions. From being our silent allies the Lebanese have become the victims of our blind pounding."

Nahum Barnea, the country's leading political commentator, warned that the public had exaggerated expectations of what might emerge from this crisis. "Israel is like the guy who promised to jump off the big top at the circus but freezes the moment he gets up there. 'Why isn't he jumping?' the spectators ask. 'No question of jumping,' the guy replies. 'The only question is how I can get down'."

full article: http://www.guardian.co.uk/syria/story/0,,1831131,00.html

[Monkeyman]

1. The whole Middle East is at sake

Oil embargo might be next thanks Bush

[TahitiNut]

2. Rice whine?

:silly: So, that's what she's doing! :dunce:

[lonestarnot]

3. As well they should.

Israel is has been coopted just like the U.S.