I think the problem stems from embracing the concept of resistance by “any means necessary”. In the case of October 6th, that resistance expressed itself through the rape of women, the murder of children, and the abduction of the elderly. This is basically a no rules bar version of conflict. Personally, I am strongly against Israeli settlement activity both in the West Bank and in Gaza. I feel that it undermines the rule of law, is contrary to international norms, and is basically a throw back to a medieval form of property confiscation. However, you cannot embrace Hamas tactics on the one hand, and then expect Israel to behave with restraint.

I can guarantee you that if South Africa’s ANC behaved like Hamas did back in the day, there would have never been an end to Apartheid, and White Supremacy rule would still be the law of the land over there. It was precisely Mandela’s insistence on the rule of law, on elections, and on inclusion that moved the ball forward to a negotiated and ultimately peaceful resolution.