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The Arab Risings, Israel and Hamas
There was one striking thing missing from the events in the Middle East
in past months: Israel. While certainly mentioned and condemned, none of
the demonstrations centered on the issue of Israel. Israel was a side
issue for the demonstrators, with the focus being on replacing unpopular
rulers.
This is odd. Since even before the creation of the state of Israel,
anti-Zionism has been a driving force among the Arab public, perhaps
more than it has been with Arab governments. While a few have been
willing to develop open diplomatic relations with Israel, many more have
maintained informal relations: Numerous Arab governments have been
willing to maintain covert relations with Israel, with extensive
cooperation on intelligence and related matters. They have been
unwilling to incur the displeasure of the Arab masses through open
cooperation, however. Read more »
Dispatch: Obstacles to a Cease-Fire in Libya
Analyst Reva Bhalla examines the constraints facing all sides in Libya as attempts at cease-fire negotiations continue. Watch the Video »
