By MARC BONEM
Santa Fe

I am distraught by calls for a cease-fire in the middle east. Who is this call to,  Israel? Hamas? Iran? Why isn’t there a call for a release of the hostages, some of whom are Americans? Why isn’t there a call for a Truth and Reconciliation Commission, with a side commitment to justice?

What were Hamas’ goals when they started this war? (Yes, THEY started this war with an invasion, mass-murder of innocent civilians, and kidnappings.) Did they really expect to win? In the aftermath, with many civilian deaths in Palestine, has Hamas expressed any regrets or apologies? Not that I’ve heard. I’m wondering if they are already planning the next war.

Remember, Israel cannot lose a war. If they do, they cease to exist. Remember also, they are surrounded by enemies, with numbers and wealth far greater than theirs. And, if only in a self-serving point of view, remember that they are the only ally in the Middle East that we can trust and depend on.

What would you all say if this had been done to the United States? Outrage? Anger? A determination to destroy the enemy so it never happens again? Our responses will determine what happens in the future. Remember, Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran, Isis and all the rest are watching closely.