Gaza Civilians

Jen Psaki, the State Department Spokesperson, at her Daily Press Briefing in Washington, DC on July 9, 2014 was asked:

QUESTION: Okay...I asked you about the Palestinians’ right to self-defense. Let me ask you this: The population in Gaza, is it largely Hamas operatives or largely innocent civilians? And if there are larger Hamas operatives, then an argument can be made that they could be targets. But if they are largely civilians, then they should have, certainly, the right to self-defense—

Before I record Ms. Psaki's response, let me point out that never have we heard of any demand for new elections to be held.  Or a request for independent international humanitarian intervention other than the simple handouts without any meddling like we in Israel permit.  Or a call for a free press. Or the right to assemle and demonstarte for rights.

Is it possible that indeed the population wholeheartedly supports the aims and goals and actions of Hamas?  That they afford protection and assistance to the terror?  They applaud and dance in the streets and allow their mosquers to serve as warehouses and when Israeli teenagers are murdered by Hamas operatives from Hebron, they hand out candies and make the three-fingered salute.

MS. PSAKI: Well, Said, I would simply say there’s a—
QUESTION:—or to protection.
MS. PSAKI:—strong difference between attacks—
QUESTION: Right, I understand.
MS. PSAKI:—rocket attacks launched by a terrorist organization that is based in Gaza and the right of Israel to defend itself. At the same time, as you know, we work closely with the Palestinians. We work closely with the Israelis. And it’s important at this point in time to see if all sides can take steps to de-escalate.

What do we really owe them?

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