From Gaza to Damascus: Lessons for the Region

whatever the deterrent effect that Israel's actions may (or may not) have on Hamas, the loss of civilian life and destruction of non-military targets in Gaza will only deepen the desire of Palestinians to seek violent retribution. In the eyes of many Palestinians, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict pivots around a religious struggle in which the "Chosen People" are violating God's commandments.

By Daniel Brumberg | January 7, 2009; 4:00 PM ET | Comments (36)