Jerusalem, June 03: Israel's Army chief claimed victory in the 33-month fight with Palestinians in a controversial interview published today in an Israeli newspaper, even as the Palestinians accused him of incitement. Yaalon's comments came after the three main Palestinian groups declared a temporary halt in attacks against Israelis, and Israeli forces handed over security control in part of northern Gaza Strip and the West Bank town of Bethlehem - a sign of progress implementing the US-backed ``roadmap'' peace plan.
``There is a good chance these days to bring the latest round of violence to an end,'' Army Chief of Staff Moshe Yaalon told the daily. ``Given that the Israeli society withstood the test, and the Army fought the terror with heroism, we now need to announce that we have won and carry on.''
He attributed Israel's success to its tough stance against violence. “There are those who say that there is no military solution, so let's surrender,'' he said. ``The fact is, we managed to bring a war that was not simple, one that could not be won with a crushing attack, to the point where the other side realizes that using force will not bring about a solution.''
He accused the militant Hamas group, one of the signatories of the truce, of failing to see the fight through to the end.
``Hamas asked for a cease-fire before the gong had sounded,'' Yaalon said. ``There is a chance the power of Hamas is declining.'' A Palestinian lawmaker was dismissive of the comments.
``I'm not a guard over the lips of Israeli officials, but I believe that such statements do not bring anything but hatred and violence,'' Saeb Erekat said.
He said the Palestinian uprising was not over, adding, ``It will never stop before the Palestinians get their national rights.'' Bureau Report