We can only hope that Hamas will take the opportunity to claim victory but act to restrain further rocket attacks. Perhaps a modus vivendi can even be achieved?
Israel declares unilateral ceasefire, says goals have been realized
JERUSALEM - Israel's top leadership Saturday approved a unilateral ceasefire that would halt the devastating 22-day military offensive in the Gaza Strip but Hamas vowed to keep fighting until all Israeli forces pull out.
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said after an emergency meeting of Israel's security cabinet the truce will go into effect at 7 p.m. ET Saturday.
He said Israel will keep troops on the ground in Gaza for the time being.
"Our goals as they were set at the beginning of the operation were fully realized, and even more than that," Olmert said.
"Hamas was hit hard, in its military arms and in its government institutions," Olmert said. "If the fire stops entirely, the IDF (Israel Defence Forces) will weigh pulling out of Gaza at a time that befits us. If not, the IDF will continue to act to defend our residents."
James Morton
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