Cabinet to decide on truce or Gaza invasion
Ministers convene to discuss deteriorating situation in South Israel, French offer for ceasefire with Hamas. Olmert, Livni in favor of continuing offensive
The National Security Cabinet convened Wednesday morning to discuss the situation in south Israel, and despite the fact that Israel has rejected a French offer for a 48-hour truce with Hamas for humanitarian purposes, the issue may be raised again during the meeting.
Defense Minister Ehud Barak supports the French proposal for a number of reasons, but mostly because he fears inclement weather conditions may hinder Israel's military activities in Gaza.
Israel may also opt for a truce in light of increasing pressure by the international community. In case the ceasefire fails, Israel will be able to say that it gave it a chance.
Cabinet ministers are at odds over the truce offer. Finance Minister Ronnie Bar-On said he was opposed to such a move, but Education Minister Yuli Tamir said Israel must give the proposal consideration.
"Accepting the offer will send a message to the Israeli public and the international community that the State's sole objective is to protect its citizens," she said.
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni are both in favor of contiunig the IDF's offensive.
A State offcial told Ynet Tuesday night that "Israel mustn't talk of a ceasefire for humanitarian needs. This expression is unacceptable to us, as medications, blood and basic commodities have already been transferred to the Gaza Strip."
