Israel may turn lights off in the Gaza strip

As a November summit between Israels prime minister Ehud Olmert and the leader of the Palestinian authority Machmoud Abbas things just seem to be getting more complicated.

 The missile attack on Israel’s southern border has prompted an emergency cabinet meeting where a military incursion into the strip was ruled out for now. Other measures were discussed such as the cessation of fuel for electricity production and stopping the water supply.

 
Some of the cabinet members are still insisting that only a massive military incursion will stop or at least lessen the missile barrage targeting Israel. Olmert’s government will likely be accused of creating a humanitarian crisis by stopping the transfer of fuel and water. The Israeli claim that it has completely left the Gaza strip and should not be responsible for anything that goes on there will fall on deaf ears. Many who were against Israel’s unilateral withdrawal from the strip two years ago envisioned the scenario that is being is played out right now. The consequences of shutting off the water and electricity will be world condemnation and will likely not stop the missile barrages. Doing nothing will make Olmert’s government look weak and indecisive.  When the Israeli army is forced to enter Gaza after a barrage that has killed or maimed civilians there will likely be extensive causalities to combatants and civilians.

 
Sooner or later it will happen, it won’t be pretty.