Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

Hamas' victory

This refers to the report that the U.S. has ruled out funds for the Hamas-led Government in Palestine. It is ironic that the U.S., supposedly fighting for democratising the world, should treat a democratically elected government thus. The U.S. should respect the verdict of the Palestinians.

Anup Jayaprakash Nambiar,
Kochi, Kerala

* * *

Hamas has won against odds. When U.S.-backed Governments are thrust upon the people of Iraq and Afghanistan, it is democracy restored. But when people vote a party to power in the elections, it is unacceptable to the West. Likewise, if the U.S. and the EU pile up nuclear weapons, it is strategic but if an Asian country like Iran enriches uranium for its energy needs, it is illegal, destructive, and lethal.

Khursheed Ahmed Siddique,
Dehra Dun

* * *

The victory of Hamas comes as a surprise as it has dislodged Fatah, a party that fought for Palestinian liberation for decades. It is a severe blow for the peace process in West Asia.

P. Christudas George,
Thrissur, Kerala

* * *

Hamas' victory will at least help democracy thrive in West Asia. The prospect is enough to welcome the result.

B. Ramakrishna,
Hyderabad

* * *

Elected Hamas should understand its political responsibility. It should shun violence and take the peace talks with Israel ahead. On it rests the hopes for a prosperous Palestine.

Shveta Sahal,
Meerut, U.P.

* * *

Hamas leader Khaled Mish'al's statement that the group will not disarm is in the right direction. It cannot afford to lay down arms until there is real hope of peace. Israel and its allies cannot be persuaded to accept dignified co-existence of both states side by side. That people of the occupied state have participated in elections shows they are committed to peace.

Ammar Anas,
New Delhi

* * *

Hamas renouncing its path of violence vis-à-vis Israel may prove to be wishful thinking. Will the people who gave a clear mandate to Hamas be happy if it toes a soft line?

Maybe the verdict is a clear signal of the changing approach to do or die. Let us hope Hamas does not interpret the verdict as a mandate for confrontation.

Satyakanth Ponnada,
Des Moines, Iowa

* * *

The people of Palestine have exercised their option and the West can do nothing about it. It is for Hamas to show credibility and lead the people towards a peaceful and acceptable solution to the vexed issue.

Prahlad Krishnamurthi,
Chennai

* * *

Peace in West Asia is under threat with the emergence of Hamas in a big way. The very existence of Israel will be in peril, and war for the city of peace will escalate, endangering world peace.

Sharada Poldoss,
Hyderabad

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