Activity 3

a. To which "old battle" does the article's headline refer?

To the conflicts that Jews and Arabs have had since the creation of Israel.

b. What seem to be the hopes underlying Israel's assault on Gaza?

First of all, they want to stop rocket attacks and eliminate Hama’s power in Palestine.

c. How would a clear Israeli victory affect the region?

It would cause countries, such as Iran, to declare common cause against Islamic militancy.

d. How would a clear Israeli victory affect the United States?

It would help to start restoration in US.

e. Why does Iran have much at stake in the outcome of the current crisis?

Iran has alot in stake because they are just over with a war and their country is poor right now so it wouldnt be the smartest thing to get involved into another war, and to lose

f. How likely is it that the Israeli assault will be successful?

for now it seems that israel could win but we dont know the limits of the Hamas yet.

g. What are some of the divisions in the Middle East that this conflict has highlighted?

Egypt because of is alaiance with Israel, Iran kinda wants to suppor Gaza although they cant

h. What happened in Lebanon in 1982? How are the Gaza attacks similar?

They may fail like they did in 1982, and also in Iran interferes, the situation will get worse.

i. In what ways might the attacks on Gaza backfire?

History suggests that Israel has a lot of probabilities to fail just as it did in lebanon on 1982.

j. Why does Mr. Abbas say he will walk away from the peace talks begun by President Bush in 2007?

Because fighting was emboldening palestinian resistance.

k. What lessons has Israel learned from Lebanon?

Israel has learned to lower expectations and this time Israel is more prepared.

m. In what way is the timing of this renewed battle beneficial?

It came before the inauguration of President Obama.

n. How will the Obama administration be able to capitalize on the situation in Gaza? 

The passionate reactions, the emotional reactions, and the hatred, will be directed at the present administration rather than the next one.