IDF fires on Gaza
Photo: AFP
Israel: We didn’t reject Hamas conditions
Prime Minister’s Office says Gaza Strip operation delayed due to sensitive timing, not military considerations
The delay of the attack in Gaza and the uncertainty over diplomatic and military maneuvers Israel is about to take have created a fury of claims and speculations on Israel’s stance and plans.
Diplomatic sources have been busy denying various claims and presenting Israel’s official stance.
Thus, for example, Israel rejected on Friday morning claims publicized in an interview with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak in the al-Aharam newspaper, according to which Israel rejected conditions set by Hamas for the release of kidnapped Corporeal Gilad Shalit.
Israel also denied the claim that a delay in the IDF operation took place due to the expected visit of Egyptian Intelligence Chief Omar Suleiman in Gaza, or his upcoming meeting with Hamas’ politburo head Khaled Mashaal in Damascus.
The Prime Minister’s Office rejected the claim that the military program did not look good to Olmert, and diplomatic sources assert that the operation was delayed due its timing. “It seems to us that the time is not right to widen the operation,” said a government source.
International pressure
However, pressure by the international community not to escalate the situation seems to be a significant factor preventing the widening of Operation Summer Rains into northern Gaza.
Criticism by the foreign minister of the G8 countries, alongside a clear call by the US secretary of state for “Israeli restraint” in Gaza came before a decision to delay, taken by Prime Minister Ehud Olmert on Thursday afternoon.
Diplomats in Jerusalem say that despite the delay, a very good atmosphere is in place between the prime minister, defense minister, and IDF sources.
“There is no tension following the delay, and whoever claims there is tension is unfamiliar with that situation,” a source said.
“Work between staffs is very good, the goal is clear, and the prime minister must according to his authority take such decisions,” the source added.
