Hamas: We determine security of Israelis living near Gaza
Published today (updated) 27/09/2014 21:00
http://www.maannews.net/eng/ViewDetails.aspx?ID=730289

GAZA CITY (Ma'an) -- A Hamas spokesman said in a statement on Saturday that
the Palestinian faction determines the security of the Israeli towns and
cities just outside the Gaza Strip, not the Israeli government.

The remarks from Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri came after Israeli Prime
Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he had guaranteed the safety of
Israelis in the border region through the destruction of Hamas tunnels in
the area and through the killing of Palestinian military leaders.

Abu Zuhri, however, denounced Netanyahu's claims, calling the statement a
"lie" and insisting that it is Hamas that determines the security of
Israelis in the region, "not Netanyahu."

Abu Zuhri's words seem designed to undermine confidence in Netanyahu among
the Israeli public by stressing the movement's continued military
capabilities.

The statement comes amid a widespread debate over the outcome of Israel's
summer offensive on Gaza that left more than 2,000 dead and devastated the
tiny enclave's infrastructure.

The Israeli prime minister's government has sought to assure the public that
the assault -- which also cost the lives of more than 60 Israeli soldiers --
was a victory for Israel, but polls show a majority are skeptical.

Many Palestinians, meanwhile, have celebrated the performance of their
military factions as a victory, highlighting the strong resistance Israeli
forces faced as they invaded Gaza.

Additionally, many note the concessions gained by the Palestinians in the
long-term ceasefire agreement, when Israel promised to "ease" its seven-year
siege and curtail limits on Gaza fisherman and agriculture in the border
zone.

More than a month after the end of fighting, however, Israel has failed to
uphold its promises, and circumstances have only marginally improved on the
ground in Gaza.