I have a question for an IDF veteran or frankly any other combat veteran who may be reading this. It seems to me that IDF troops deployed opposite the Gaza strip have to consider themselves on a war/combat footing. What is the procedure for keeping watch. Was somebody asleep, either at the outpost or someplace else. How is it possible for tunnels to be dug like this, aren't their countermeasures available. But, the over riding question is why weren't they on alert and does the fault lie with them or commanders up the chain of command who weren't checking the line. I honestly don't know and I'd like to hear from somebody who does.

Yes, of course questions must be asked as set out in the article, but it is easy to do so after the event and it will never be possible to prevent all terrorist attacks which come in many different guises. Amidst all the criticisms of supposed shortcomings, whether in the IDF, intelligence or the government, are we losing sight of the most fundamental point? Namely that responsibility for today's terrible events lies solely upon the terrorists.

A post-op review isn't just about laying blame or criticism. Its also about identifying flaws in order to improve performance. Even in war we learn the most from our mistakes.

I have asked these questions many times earlier. I even was trying to post them here but my message was removed. I guess I was interfering with Olmerts march to Nobel Prize. Later I'll give the answer.

Yariv in TA or anybody else. What are the rules of engagement in this area. Can the army shoot at anything that moves, and if not why not? Is it possible to mine the area, and if not why not. How long is a shift on an outpost/ guard duty. Is there electrified fencing, is that possible. Basically, are the terrorists that good or is there a flaw in training or doctrine. Somebody other than me, several thousand miles away and not a veteran, better be asking these questions.

Israel , undefeated in war now defeated by the peace process. The coward in chief Olmert leads Israel in retreat and surrender

I was told today that the soldiers saw him being kidnapped and waited half an hour to fight because they had to have O.K. from superiors. If that's true - NIGHTMARE OF Kastner style. Perfidy against our children. {Please write back and clarify.)